The Observer 02-17-2022 E-edition

Thursday Feb. 17, 2022

Vol. 14, No. 19

Opelika, Alabama

Covering Lee County, Alabama

An award-winning publication created 'For local people, by local people.'

Fuller Presents State Of The City Last week the Opelika Chamber of Commerce held its annual state of the city address.

Mayor Gary Fuller updated residents, business owners and government officials on all the city accomplished in 2021 and what it had to look forward to in 2022.

Some of the accomplishments over the last few years in Opelika have included the Opelika SportsPlex, new library, new municipal court facility, new fire department headquarters, renovations to the high school and more.

There have been 4,000 new jobs and 2,000 sin-

PHOTO BY ROBERT NOLES / THE OBSERVER

BY HANNAH LESTER HLESTER@OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM

BRIDGES gle-family homes added to the city as well.

Over the last year, the city of Opelika saw some changes.

Former Ward 3 Ope-

lika Council Member Robert Lofton passed away in December after stepping down in November 2021 due to his worsening ALS

Porter Properties Develops Long Vacant Opelika Lot Local developer Porter Properties announced the future plans for Orr Distribution Center, a 22+ acre redevelopment of the long vacant Ampex — Quantegy site on Marvyn Parkway. The development will include multiple buildings designed for warehousing, distribution and commercial sales and service. The first phase will include two modern distribution warehouses with a total area of 345,000 square feet. The frontage along Marvyn Parkway will include up to 100,000 square feet of office/retail flex space built to tenant specifications.

“I want to thank Howard Porter and his team for choosing Opelika as the home of Orr Distribution Center," said Opelika

Mayor Gary Fuller. "This redevelopment will help revitalize the area and bring additional jobs to the city. We appreciate partners like Porter and look forward to announcing businesses as they move into the space.”

The site is part of the old Camp Opelika, an 800-acre World War II prisoner of war camp that was built in 1942 to house Nazi war prisoners from Rommel’s Afrika Corps.

The POW camp was decommissioned in 1945 and used for a short period of time as short term housing for returning war veterans.

Once vacated, the Opelika Industrial Development Board developed the acreage into Orr Industrial Park, the first of Opelika’s premier industrial parks. Originally home to major employers

Ampex, Diversified Products and others, the park is now seeing the start of revitalization by developer Howard Porter who recently completed renovation of the former MNC Building on Williamson Avenue and the Global K9 Protection Group Training Center of Excellence on Poplar Street.

“We are thrilled to support this development and the much needed warehouse/distribution space it will bring to Opelika," said Lori Huguley, CEcD, director Opelika Economic Development. "We appreciate Mr. Porter’s investment into our community.”

For further information contact Howard J. Porter, Jr., Porter Properties, hporter@portercompanies. com, 334-319-3107.

condition.

Current Ward 3 Council Member Tim Aja took his place.

“Tim will have big See OPELIKA, page A2

CONTRIBUTED BY AOT

The board of directors of Auburn-Opelika Tourism (AOT) has announced Robyn Bridges as

president & CEO of the organization, effective May 1.

John Wild, current AOT president, will See PRESIDENT, page A3

Urgent Care for Children Begins Serving Auburn-Opelika Community in After-Hours Pediatric urgent care opens doors to 19th clinic in the heart of Tiger Town PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

CONTRIBUTED BY THE CITY OF OPELIKA

Auburn-Opelika Tourism Names New President & CEO

CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

Urgent Care for Children (UC4C), a Birmingham-based pediatric urgent care provider, is now open and servicing families in the Auburn-Opelika area. The newest clinic sits at 2564 Enterprise Dr. This location is UC4C’s second clinic opening in 2022, and its 10th location in the state of Alabama as the company continues its rapid expansion across the Southeast.

“We began fulfilling our mission of providing quality care, convenient care and continuity of care for children during late nights and week-

CONTENTS OPINION.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A4 OPINION

SPORTS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B1

SOUTHERN HOSPITALITY. . . . . A7

POLITICS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B9

RELIGION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A14

CLASSIFIEDS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B11

COMICS.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A16 COMICS

PUBLIC NOTICES. . . . . . . . . . . . B13

ends in Birmingham just five years ago,” said UC4C Founder and Chief Executive Officer Dr. Allury Arora-Lal. “We have since made a strong impression on families across the South and earned more than 5,000 five-star reviews. Our team of pediatric profes-

sionals is elated to bring our standard of care to the Auburn-Opelika community. Urgent Care for Children creates a continuum of care by supplementing the hours of local pediatric offices and providing an affordSee URGENT CARE, page A3

A2 Feb. 17, 2022

Auburn Chamber Holds Ribbon Cuttings

Lauren Beesley Photography located at 2436 E. University Dr., Suite 2201, in Auburn

State Farm Insurance — Scott Holley located at 778 N. Dean Road, Suite 200, in Auburn

The Dollhouse Salon & Extension Studio located at 1345 Opelika Road, Suite 5, in Auburn

PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

Amigos Cantina & Grill located at 200 W. Glenn Ave. in Auburn

OPELIKA >>

FROM A1

training.”

The Fire Department had over 5,800 emergency calls, 605 prefire plans, 19 business inspections, 956 fire drills, 1,100 fire hydrants that were tested and/or painted, over 440 burn permits issued and over 10,600 training hours completed.

The Opelika Parks and Recreation Department added outdoor restrooms at the Opelika SportsPlex, a parking lot and walking track and Shady Park, fencing and restroom at Ray Ward Park and a rain garden at the Wood Duck Nature Park.

The new Opelika Public Library opened in October 2021 and has since welcomed over 57,300 visits and over 950 new library cards.

Twenty-five residents completed the Ascend Ready to Work Program, 91 completed the pre-trial diversion program and there are 157 residents active in the diversion program, Fuller said.

Opelika Power Services had over $2.5 million in new infrastructure with over 540 new

Sports Editor: Wil Crews Live Lee Editor: Hannah Lester Phone: 334.749.8003 editor@opelikaobserver.com Michelle@opelikaobserver.com

Publisher: Michelle Key

electric customers.

These are only some of the departments and services that were offered to Opelika in 2021.

But, upcoming projects are on the horizon.

“We have to continue to be future-focused,” Fuller said. “And look to where we’ll be in 10 or 20 years from now. Infrastructure and transportation must be at or near the top of the list.

“Getting folks from point A to point B so they can work, shop, go to school, go to church, enjoy leisure activities, is critical to maintaining the quality of life that we all love here in Opelika.”

Additionally, the Opelika 2040 Comprehensive Plan is in the works.

“The first phase of that included in-person meetings, questionnaires to understand where we’d like to grow and then, of course, the plan will wrap up this summer and fall with a final plan to be presented to the city council and to the community,” Fuller said.

Other upcoming projects include 24 covered pickleball courts, replac-

Opelika Chamber of Commerce President Ali Rauch.

PHOTO BY ROBERT NOLES / THE OBSERVER

shoes to fill and we’re confident that he’s going to make a positive impact on our community,” Fuller said.

The city saw a capital investment of $160 million in the industrial sector over the last year, plus 580 new jobs.

Some of those new developments included the Tiger Town Whataburger, Brick & Spoon, Joann stores and more. Hanwha Cimmaron expanded and Bonnie Plants formed its headquarters in Opelika.

Opelika also saw an increase in housing developments.

“Sometimes folks ask me ‘why are they building all these new houses?’” Fuller said. “The short answer is because folks are buying them.

But the reason they’re buying them, folks will move to a new place for a good job and for great schools. So, we have good jobs and we have great schools.”

The 2021 budgeted revenue was over $126 million, but Opelika saw

revenue of over $143 million.

The Opelika Police Department has found new ways to connect with citizens.

“We’re always trying to improve the way we communicate with our citizens and the OPD app is a great way to learn more about their programs and they also recently pushed out a citizen survey,” Fuller said.

The department had over 79,400 service calls, over 10,700 certified training hours, eight officer promotions and 11 police academy graduates.

The Opelika Fire Department welcomed its new chief Shane Boyd in 2021, and also launched new social media programs.

“They also participated in some 300-plus community outreach programs,” Fuller said.

“Chief Boyd and the fire department has been making improvements, whether it be new equipment or additional services, spending more time in the community and enhancing their

Fuller and Lee County Sheriff Jay Jones. ing the bridge on North Uniroyal Road, a new roundabout at SportsPlex Parkway and improvements to Columbus Parkway, among more.

“Thank y’all for allowing me to be mayor of this great city,” Fuller

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said. “It has certainly been my greatest honor and privilege to be able to work for you all. I knew the first day on the job back in 2004 who the boss was and it’s still true today; the citizens of Opelika are the boss.”

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A3 Feb 17, 2022

Manufacturing Training Center Awarded Alabama Power Foundation Grant

BY THE CITY OF AUBURN

BY DAVID DORTON

Tuesday, the Industrial Development Board (IDB) of the city of Auburn was awarded a grant from the Alabama Power Foundation to support the Advanced Manufacturing Training Center. The $75,000 grant will fund improvements and assist in the expansion of the training center located in the Auburn Industrial Park.

Created through a partnership between the IDB

and Auburn University, the center provides advanced upskill training for existing manufacturing employees in machining, automation and metrology. Its purpose is to better equip workers with the skills needed to flourish in the everevolving manufacturing world. Individuals are able to obtain certifications for skills training in five-axis operating systems at the center, and local companies are provided with space for prototyping and research.

“The Advanced Manufacturing Training Center is important for Auburn, but also the entire region, in preparing workers to meet the immediate and future needs of manufacturers,” said Leslie Sanders, vice president of Alabama Power’s Southern Division.

“This center is a product of partnerships and brings together manufacturing and employee needs. The Alabama Power Foundation is proud to support efforts

that help our communities grow.”

The $75,000 grant will go toward expanding the center into its second building, which will encompass additive manufacturing,

manufacturing demonstration cells and a comprehensive manufacturing demonstration line for new technologies. This funding will help bring the center

into the next phase of technological application.

“We’re grateful for this generous investment from the Alabama Power Foundation,” said city of Auburn Economic Development Director Phillip Dunlap. “The Advanced Manufacturing Training Center is an important piece of the puzzle in preparing our manufacturing workforce for the future of the industry, and we’re excited to expand the center’s offerings.”

Auburn Mardi Gras Parade Set for Saturday Feb. 26

BY WIL CREWS SPORTSCREWS@ OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM

The city of Auburn will host the fifth annual Krewe De Tigris Mardi Gras parade on Saturday, Feb. 26 at 3 p.m.

“The founders decided they wanted to bring the merriment of Mardi Gras to the loveliest village on the plains,” said Krewe de Tigris President Michelle Held. “They wanted to give this area a chance to

year,” Held said.

While the parade does not officially begin until the afternoon, the spirit of Mardi Gras will begin at 10 a.m. with the fourth annual Krewe Krawl.

In conjunction with the parade, Auburn Downtown Merchants is hosting the Krewe Krawl which will feature exclusive discounts and specials to those who purchase a wristband for $10. Wristbands can be purchased as of today, Feb. 17, at the following

locations: Behind the Glass, Cellaris, Charming Oaks and Ellie. Specials afforded to those wearing wristbands include free cover charges, drink specials, food specials and discounts at local retailers. All money raised for the event will go back to funding future events in downtown Auburn.

“It’s a great way to not only bring the Mardi Gras excitement to our local community, but it also gives back to those local merchants that support us

all year. It’s a full day. You can come down, go grab you something to eat, shop at the shops and then line up for the parade. It’s just a great day.”

The parade route will begin on the Thach Concourse on Auburn University’s campus, go north on Gay Street, west on Tichenor Avenue and south on College Street down to Toomer’s Corner. The streets will close early and reopen after the parade.

The event is set to feature

around 50 entries of cars, bands, community organizations and businesses, school clubs, a number official Krewe de Tigris floats and more. Parade-goers will have ample opportunities to catch beads, candy, toys and more.

“You can expect tons of moon pies flying,” Held said. “Beads, stuffed animals, Frisbees, there’s just a little bit of everything that will be flying that day.

I expect everyone to walk away with a good haul.”

of services into the Auburn-Opelika market,” said Neal Owens, vice president of real estate for Urgent Care for Children. “We are conveniently located directly in front of Target with the Tiger Town Shopping Center which allows our location ease of access

from every direction.

We look forward to becoming the area’s trusted after-hours provider for convenient pediatric urgent care needs all 365 days of the year.”

The Auburn-Opelika clinic operates from 2 p.m. until 10 p.m. on weekdays and from 8

a.m. until 6 p.m. on weekends. Patients are welcome to walk in or save their spots online.

Urgent Care for Children will host a ribbon-cutting ceremony alongside city officials and the Opelika Chamber of Commerce in the weeks to come.

ABOUT URGENT CARE

FOR CHILDREN Urgent Care for Children is a physician-founded pediatric urgent care provider with 19 clinics across the Southeast. UC4C’s licensed, on-site pediatricians and pediatric nurse practitioners offer acute diagnostic and treatment care for

children ages zero to 21 with non-life-threatening needs. The company proudly runs the nation’s first sensory-inclusive urgent care facilities. For more information, visit www.childrensurgent. com or visit its Facebook and Instagram pages.

18 years of service.

“I could not be more humbled to have the opportunity to lead this organization,” Bridges said. “To work every day with our team with the sole purpose of making this community better is one of the

great privileges of my life.”

Wild and Bridges have worked as a team for almost 25 years, going back to previous positions with the Hotel at Auburn University.

“John has been an

incredible mentor and friend my entire career,” Bridges said.

“The impacts he has made on me, on our team and on the hospitality industry in Auburn-Opelika and beyond cannot be overstated. He will be

sorely missed.”

ABOUT AUBURN-OPELIKA TOURISM Auburn-Opelika Tourism is a non-profit service organization positively impacting the economy and enhancing the quality of life in our community

through tourism and travel. They consider the needs of residents and service providers first and then work tirelessly to maintain the balance needed to satisfy and exceed the expectations of visitors.

PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

celebrate Mardi Gras just like the gulf coast does, like Mobile. [To experience] that excitement, a time to come together with friends and family, and basically just let the good times roll.”

Following a brief hiatus last year due to the COVID-19 pandemic, this year’s theme is Rolling With the Royals, determined by Mardi Gras King and Queen Adris Ludlum and Dawn Patterson.

“We are very excited that we are rolling back out this

URGENT CARE

>>

FROM A1

able alternative to the emergency room.”

The newest clinic is home to an on-site laboratory, x-ray and pharmacy.

“We’re thrilled to expand our network

PRESIDENT

>>

FROM A1

retire on that date after almost 19 years of service. Bridges currently serves as vice president of the organization where she also has over

A4 Feb. 17, 2022

The American Way

I

SEAN DIETRICH

was a kid. My father and I walked into the filling station.

The bell above the door dinged.

Daddy was filthy from working under a car.

He was always working under cars. He came from a generation of men who were born with Sears, Roebuck & Co. ratcheting wrenches in their hands. These were men who changed their own motor oil, who worked harder on off-days than they did on weekdays.

Old man Peavler stood behind the counter. He was built like a fireplug with ears. He, too, worked on cars all day.

Except he did it for a living, so he hated it.

Daddy roamed the aisles looking for lunch among Mister Peavler’s fine curation of topshelf junk food. In the background, a transistor radio played the poetry of

Willie Hugh Nelson.

My father approached the ancient cooler, located beneath the Alberto Vargas calendar my mother warned me not to look at under threat of eternal hellfire.

The white words on the fire-engine-red cooler said DRINK COCA-COLA — ICE COLD. My father removed the sensuous hour-glass bottle, dripping with condensation. Then he grabbed a plastic sleeve of salt peanuts from the shelf.

We approached the counter.

“Howdy,” said old man Peavler. Only it came out more like “Haddy,” because that is how real people talk.

Old man Peaveler looked at our items, did some mental math and told us how much we owed by rounding up to the nearest buck. The old man’s cash register

hadn’t worked since Herbert Hoover was in the White House.

We exited the store and sat on the curb in the all-consuming sunlight.

There, my father and I counted cars. For this is what people did before Olive Gardens and Best Buys ruled the world.

Daddy used his belt buckle to pop open his Coke. He used his teeth to tear open the peanuts. Then he carefully dumped the nuts into the mouth of the bottle.

He handed the bottle to me.

“Here,” he said. “This is something my daddy used to do. Try it.”

I tentatively took a sip.

It was a peculiar flavor, Coke and peanuts. Salty.

Sweet. Fizzy. With subtle roasted hints of Dothan, Alabama. I’ve been an advocate for mixing peanuts in Coke ever since.

Which is why when I was invited to give a presentation to Mrs. Welch’s eighth-grade English class, I knew exactly what I was going to present.

I arrived at the school late. I jogged across the parking lot, carrying a box of 31 glass bottles of Coca-Cola with 31 sleeves of Planters peanuts. I schlepped the heavy items into the school office and signed

in.

The receptionist looked and me oddly and — this is a direct quote — she said, “You’re giving these kids caffeine?”

She had a point. Because eighth graders are an interesting lot. They aren’t children per se, and they aren’t adults. They are life-sized puberty demonstrations.

Eighth-graders only think about one thing, and this “one thing” is immediately evident when you walk into their classroom, because the classroom is entirely illuminated by spontaneous electrical arcs of raw hormonal energy.

I enlisted two students named Ben and Amanda to distribute Cokes and peanuts. One diabetic young man received a Coke Zero.

I went through a brief introductory spiel, explaining the cultural practice of adding peanuts to Coke. It’s a regional thing. A cherished convention. A practice so emblematically American that it’s Rockwellian.

The tradition started in the early 1920s when shelled peanuts began showing up in mercantiles and general stores across the Bible Belt.

Blue-collar men, covered in grease, would dump peanuts into their Cokes

to avoid eating with soiled hands. These men passed this habit onto their sons.

But this is where history gets sad.

Because my generation let the practice die. Most young people have never heard of adding peanuts to Coke, and that’s our fault. I have a hard time forgiving my peers for that.

My grandfather’s generation gave us the radio, the airplane, the refrigerator, the Model T, the electric toaster and victory over Hitler. My generation gave the world E! Entertainment television.

I aimed to even the score.

The students poured peanuts into their bottles.

Messes were made. Bottles erupted on desks like Mount Saint Soft Drink.

Everyone started to giggle. Then the class looked at me with hideously confused faces when I suggested they drink this concoction.

“Gross!” said one spokeskid.

“No way,” said another.

“Class,” Mrs. Welch reminded everyone, “Mister Dietrich has gone to a lot of trouble and spent his OWN MONEY on these Cokes.”

I sincerely appreciated

her support, although I couldn’t help but notice that when I added peanuts to her personal soft drink, her face went pale and she covered her mouth.

Still, the kids were good sports. They tried it. And here were the remarks I received: “It was good,” said Michael.

“Salty and sugary,” said Blake. “All that carbonation. I’d do it again.”

“It was actually okay,” said Kera.

“Didn’t think I’d like it,” said Mark. “But it’s kinda the same idea as chocolate and peanut butter, only kinda not.”

“Honestly,” said Brady.

“It made me feel like a really old fart inside.”

Everyone’s a wise crack.

And then there was Deshawn. Ah, Deshawn.

“That was nasty,” Deshawn said between retching gags. “The worst stuff I ever...”

Gag. “Can I be excused, Mrs. Welch…?” Gag. “I seriously feel like I’m gonna...” Gag. “...gonna puke all over Mister Dietrich.” Gag. So all in all, it was a pretty good day. Which is why I went directly home and seriously considered changing my own motor oil.

You were missed, Daddy.

do when an older woman flirts a bit. I grin behind my menu, enjoying the moment.

Wanda bustles toward the kitchen, the younger waitress trailing behind her. I know that feeling — new at a job and trying so hard to catch on, to fit in. She’s going to get a massive tip, bless her heart.

Tim and I smile at each other and glance around, both aware that something is missing. Finally it dawns on me — there’s no peg game on the table.

Say it ain’t so!

“Covid, I guess?” shrugging my shoulders.

“I bet that’s it,” Tim answers. And we sit there shaking our heads at the loss of something so ... timeless.

“You know they serve alcohol now,” Tim said.

“Oh, that’s right. I did

hear that,” I respond.

And again we shake our heads. Something about that just doesn’t sit right.

Cracker Barrel serving alcohol feels a bit … off.

It’s like going to Grandma’s house and being told there are cigarettes for everyone instead of dessert after dinner. Smoke if you like, but don’t expect Grandma to buy a pack for you.

Something else is missing — there’s no jumbo checker game set up for everyone to enjoy. Covid strikes again.

“I don’t like change.

You know this about me,” I lean toward Tim to speak.

“I’m aware,” he smiles as he answers.

“Just look at this place, though,” Tim’s gaze travels around the room.

Cracker Barrel

WENDY HODGE

I

t’s amazing what you may find if you wait about a year and a half to clean out your purse. This past weekend, when I could no longer hoist the bag on my shoulder, I realized it was time to just get it done. And, oh, what I found — my strawberry watermelon chapstick I was sure the dog had eaten, about $23 in dimes (why are there never any quarters?) and a jar of

baby food plums (don’t ask). But then, underneath a mound of (hopefully clean) Kleenex, jackpot — a Cracker Barrel gift card.

Tim and I stood at the kitchen counter and called the 800 number on the back to see if it was still a valid card. Anyone watching would have thought we were waiting on the verdict from an appraiser on some ancient artifact we had unearthed or that we were penniless and starving. Neither of these was true, but … I mean … it's a Cracker Barrel gift card.

The automated voice told us we had $25 to spend, and just like that it was Christmas again.

We planned a Sunday morning brunch, just the two of us. Off and on all weekend, one of us would say, “I’m excited about

Poarch. Partners in Alabama’s progress.

We share with our neighbors a common goal—the health, education and well-being of people statewide.

Poarch provides over 9,000 jobs to Alabamians, pays millions in state taxes each year, and makes charitable contributions reaching nearly $9 million annually.

our Cracker Barrel date.”

The other would usually respond with a “Me, too” or a grin and glazed over eyes. Cracker Barrel biscuits have that power — they can make you grin before you ever actually eat a single bite.

Sunday morning was one of those cold clear winter mornings that make you inhale deeply and just breathe in nature.

We pulled into the parking lot, which was already filling up, and made our way to the seating hostess. Along the way, I had just enough time to glance at the rows of vintage cookbooks and the stack of pecan log rolls. I coveted both, equally.

We were taken directly to a table in front of a window with a perfect view of the entire restaurant. I couldn’t have picked a better spot to

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people watch.

We perused the menu, toying with the idea of the healthy yogurt parfait breakfast. But that was a flat-out lie that we occasionally tell ourselves before deciding on the same breakfast we always order. Tim gets Uncle Hershel’s Favorite, and I opt for the Sunrise Sampler. I can already taste the bacon.

Our waitress has only one star on her Cracker Barrel apron. She is new.

God bless her. Before we can confuse her too much with our order, another waitress steps in to help.

She is an older woman and she has five stars on her apron. We are in good hands. Her name is Wanda, and she calls me “sweetie.” She calls Tim “sugar” and winks at him. He straightens in his chair the way most men

Saturday 10am-7pm

Sunday Noon-5pm

205-836-7173

www.christmasvillagefestival.com/cottontails

DON’T DELAY DO IT FOR YOURSELF DO IT FOR YOUR FAMILY For a referral or more information go to: www.alabama.gov/bandc scan the QR Code below, or contact the hotline: 1-877-252-3324

A5 Feb 17, 2022

LETTER TO THE EDITOR:

BY TIM FRAZIER

Demand for commercial truck drivers nationwide has reached a critical point, and it’s only going to keep growing for the foreseeable future. With the current strain on the world’s supply chain, pay and earnings have gone up significantly for truck drivers — a career that was already a well-paying path to the middle class for Americans without a college degree.

But misinformation about new national

training standards may be keeping qualified prospective drivers away from turning to trucking as a career. It’s so important that the public and members of our trucking community understand the difference between fact and fiction when it comes to the new federal Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) requirements that go into effect on Feb. 7, 2022.

These new requirements establish a single, national standard for obtaining a commercial driver’s license. The new

Alabama Offers Time to Prepare for Storms Tax-Free CONTRIBUTED BY ALABAMA RETAIL ASSOCIATION

From Friday, Feb. 25, to Sunday, Feb. 27, Alabama will observe its 11th annual Severe Weather Preparedness Sales Tax Holiday.

The Alabama Retail Association encourages Alabamians to restock emergency supplies in homes, workplaces and vehicles during this three-day tax holiday.

Certain emergency preparedness items will be exempt from the state’s 4% state sales tax, and in some cities and counties, local taxes are waived on those items as well. The tax holiday means shoppers can save as much as 10% on these items in some areas of the state.

Lee County particiaptes in this event.

From 12:01 a.m. Feb. 25 to midnight Feb. 27, the tax-exempt items include the following priced at $60 or less: Flashlights, lanterns Battery-powered or hand-crank radio Batteries First-aid kits Cell phone charger Two-way radios Manual can openers Tarps and plastic sheeting Duct tape Fire extinguishers Tie-down kits, bungee cords or rope.

Other tax-free items include: Coolers, ice packs, plywood, window film and smoke/fire/ carbon monoxide

detectors. Portable generators and power cords costing $1,000 or less are also tax free.

Full list of taxfree items visit: www.alabamaretail. org/resources/ salestaxholidays/severeweather-preparedness/ Severe weather preparedness sales tax holiday page at alabamaretail.org Alabama is one of only two states with a severe weather preparedness sales tax holiday in 2022; the other state is Texas.

“Severe weather can occur at any time, in any season,” said Alabama Retail President Rick Brown. “The tax holiday helps Alabama consumers remember to stock and prepare emergency kits to be ready when storms strike.”

Earlier this month, Alabama experienced a deadly EF-2 tornado that tracked through Greene and Hale counties, plus the state experienced snow in early and mid January.

Local hardware stores are prepared to serve their communities in the event of a natural disaster.

Alabama Retail recommends having enough supplies in emergency kits to last 72 hours following a disaster. For information on what items to include in emergency kits, as well as steps to take before and after disasters, visit www.ready.gov.

FRAZIER

HODGE >>

FROM A4

“I bet the stuff hanging on the walls hasn’t been touched in decades.”

Every available inch is covered with metal signs bearing vintage advertisements, shelves with ancient cast iron skillets and rolling pins, deer heads, antique rifles and even a red Radio Flyer wagon mounted above the oversized open hearth fireplace.

“Cracker Barrel will always be Cracker Barrel.”

And I realize he’s right.

You can walk into any Cracker Barrel anywhere, and the tables and chairs will be exactly the same.

The menu will not waver.

There will always be old-fashioned hard candy and salt water taffy, Malo Cups and Moon Pies, and dozens of relishes and pickled vegetables.

There will be the obligatory rack of cheap jewelry and football memorabilia. Baby clothes and ladies’ sweaters will be found in close proximity to the children’s toys and books. And right next to the check-out counter you can inevitably find a rack of audio books for rent to keep you company until you stop at the next Cracker Barrel down the road.

Even the people seated at other tables, as unique as they all may be, are the same crowd who’s always at Cracker Barrel on Sunday morning … salt of the earth, hard-working folks who enjoy a meat and three or pancakes and eggs before church service.

I once tried to describe Cracker Barrel to a friend of mine who is native Australian. He’s never been to America, and I

requirements were first mandated by Congress back in 2012, and to be clear, this rule has been a long time coming with a diverse group of stakeholders involved in its drafting.

So what is changing with these new training requirements? For most current drivers and motor carrier fleets that have a structured training program in place today, the truth is — not that much.

It is important to note that if you already hold a commercial driver’s license, for the most part,

was telling him about all things we hold scared. Of course, Cracker Barrel was on the list. I went into detail about the items hanging on the wall and for sale in the store.

“So, it’s a thrift store?” he asked.

“Well, no,” I answered.

“A rummage sale, then?”

“Um. No. It’s a restaurant.”

“You mean, you eat surrounded by someone’s old junk?”

“Yes.” “And it’s all hanging on the walls — over the tables?”

“Well ... yeah.”

He may never come to America now.

Our food arrives — all nine plates of it. Eggs and grits and bacon and country fried steak and more bacon and fried apples and hash brown casserole … and bis-

you will not be affected by these new training standards. You’re essentially grandfathered in.

The revised ELDT regulations only apply to drivers seeking to 1) Obtain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) for the first time; 2) Upgrade their existing CDL from Class B to Class A; or 3) Obtain a new hazmat, passenger or school bus endorsement.

And despite rumors spreading on social See CDL, page A6

cuits. We dive in and only stop when we’re groaning, uncomfortable in our now-tight pants.

Then we both sigh. You know that sigh? It’s the contented exhalation that always comes when you have eaten well.

I reach out and take Tim’s hand and smile at him. “Thank you for this,” I tell him. “I love this place.”

“Me too,” he answers.

As we pay at the counter (I left a tip far beyond the customary 15% so that maybe the new waitress will go home feeling like returning to work and earning another star on her apron), I smile to myself.

We’ll be back again, and Cracker Barrel will still be the way we left it, despite the few changes the world has brought to its door. Maybe next time I’ll even order a mimosa.

A6 Feb. 17, 2022

Celebrating the Buffalo Soldier CONTRIBUTED BY SHERRY JILES

With the month of February being Black History Month, the VFW Post 5732 and auxiliary members wanted to share the following information on the famed Buffalo Soldiers. Other than officers, all members of these units were Blacks, know as the “Buffalo Soldier” and were stationed at Fort Missoula, Montana.

History states that more than 150 years ago, 200,000 Black soldiers in the Union went on to serve in the

regular army following the Civil War. Originally there were six units of Buffalo Soldiers but by 1869 only four units remained.

Buffalo Soldiers, so named by the native Americans, have served on the Great Plains, Cuba, the Philippines, along the Mexican border, both World Wars and beyond. They were known for the hard work, dedication and talented bands. They remained segregated and led by white officers.

Many times, they faced racial injustices. They could build towns, dig

water holes but still had to sleep outside.

On Aug. 6, 1896, bicyclists left Montana as the start of the “Bicycle Experiment”. Lt. James Moss believed that bicycles could be potential military transportation.

When his idea was approved by his commanding officers, he negotiated for the A.G. Spalding Company to donate bicycles he had designed. The first trip was 126 miles round trip. Riders carried coffee, sugar, bacon, flour, canned beans and bicycle parts. Each rider also carried his shelter, bed

roll, cooking and eating gear, rifle, ammunition, clothes and personal hygiene items. The packs weighed from 68 to 83 pounds. This first trip lasted four days.

The second ride began Aug. 15, 1896, with nine riders. This round-trip to Yellowstone National Park was 700 miles and lasted 10 days.

A trip that began on June 14, 1897, was considered “The Great Bicycle Experiment.”

Twenty-three Buffalo Soldiers traveled more than 1,900 miles over 41 days from Fort Mis-

soula, Montana, to St. Louis, Missouri. With each journey’s lesson, the troops traveled with more essential items — more bicycle parts, essential medical supplies, additional types of food, cameras and rolls of film to document the trip.

The troops rode trains back to Fort Missoula. By the time the experiment ended, gasoline powered vehicles had become popular. Bicycles were used to a small extent in World War I and this experiment slipped into history.

According to www. history.com, Mark Matthews, the nation’s oldest living buffalo soldier, died in 2005 at age 111 in Washington, D.C. A museum, the Buffalo Soldiers National Museum, dedicated to the history of this group’s military service can be found in Houston, Texas.

Buffalo Soldiers Day will be recognized on July 28, 2022.

For more information on the Buffalo Soldiers, contact a veterans service organization in the area.

CDL >>

proficient in all units of the theory curriculum.

There are also no required minimum instruction hours for behind-thewheel (BTW) training.

Training is complete when the training provider determines that a trainee is proficient in all elements of the BTW curriculum.

There are also no new exorbitant costs nor minimum training hours required with the new ELDT. Prospective drivers do not have to go to a truck driver training school and can still receive training from the same places they are offered today.

For carriers, this means if you conduct in-house training today, you’ll still be able to do so after the new ELDT rule becomes effective.

However, what will change is that training providers will soon have to meet minimum training requirements set forth in 49 CFR §380 Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations, issued back in 2016, and then register online with FMCSA’s Training Provider Registry.

These new rules establish consistent and effective training requirements and will help reduce the failure rates for the state driver licensing agenciesadministered skills test, thereby helping drivers to obtain CDLs more efficiently and improve the supply chain.

Additionally, the Training Provider Registry will make it easier for new drivers to find qualified training providers, increasing the likelihood that a prospective driver signs up for and completes training.

How does this help the

public?

Research from the American Trucking Associations estimates that the U.S. needs about 80,000 additional truckers on the road to meet the economy’s current freight demands. To fill that gap, we must make entry into our field obtainable, affordable, reliable, and most importantly, safe .

Our organization is already implementing creative ways to attract a new generation of workers to the industry.

We have researched and established target audiences who are most likely to benefit from a career in trucking, and we are rolling out workforce development ad campaigns to attract the next generation of drivers and service technicians — our industry’s greatest workforce needs.

Professional drivers deliver more than 86 percent of all goods to Alabama communities.

We have more than 112,000 Alabamians working in our industry.

We need more individuals to join our ranks to move both the state and national economies. The good news is that the new ELDT rule will not negatively impact the ability for new drivers to enter the industry, despite misinformation you may have read on social media.

Tim Frazier is vice president of safety & compliance for the Alabama Trucking Association. He is a trucking industry expert with more than 40 years of experience in fleet safety, maintenance and management working with some of the region’s largest and most successful fleets. He may be reached at tfrazier@ alabamatrucking.org.

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

Sec. of State Candidate Visits Opelika Kiwanis Club Wes Allen who is currently running for Alabama Secretary of State spoke to the Opelika Kiwanis Club last week. Next week on the Feb. 24, the speaker will be Bryan Elmore. He is the assistant vicepresident for Budgets and Business Operations at Auburn University.

FROM A5

COURT FORGIVENESS PROGRAM February 1 - March 31 MONDAY - FRIDAY • 8 A.M. - 7 P.M. 300 MLK Boulevard • Opelika • Do you have unpaid parking tickets?

• Do you have an outstanding FTA warrant?

• Are you on probation?

• Do you have a Time to Pay (TTP) case?

If so, you are eligible for the first ever Court Forgiveness Program. Only cases that have already been adjudicated by the court are eligible for forgiveness. This program does not include new drug, alcohol, firearm or domestic violence cases.

To participate: • Bring a photo ID • Payments: Cash, Visa or Mastercard • Payment plans available if approved by court.

• Community service or Ready To Work program in lieu of fines/costs if approved.

For more info, visit www.opelika-al.gov or call Opelika Municipal Court at 334-705-5196.

media, the process for obtaining a CDL will not markedly differ from what takes place today. Prospective drivers will still be required to complete theory instruction and behindthe-wheel instruction before taking their skills test to obtain their CDL. There is also no minimum number of hours as part of this training. The new ELDT simply means everyone will be using the same training curriculum nationwide. And we believe that will vastly improve the consistency of entry-level training.

In fact, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) estimates that 85 percent of entry-level drivers already receive training curricula that meet the ELDT requirements.

In Alabama, there are 15 public CDL programs offered through the Alabama Community College System and several private training programs, and most if not all of the programs we are aware of already meet or exceed the new standard.

We hosted meetings throughout the state in January in partnership with the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency to educate stakeholders on these changes, and most of the time was spent clearing up misinformation surrounding the rule.

Most training providers won’t have to change their programs to comply with ELDT requirements.

There are no required minimum instruction hours for theory training.

Training providers must use assessments to determine if trainees are

E vents, Food, & SocietyNews

UPCOMING EVENTS FEB. 18: FOOD TRUCK FRIDAY DOWNTON OPELIKA FEB. 18: ALABAMA VEX ROBOTICS STATE CHAMPIONSHIP FEB. 20: WAR EAGLE RUN FEST HALF MARATHON, 5K, KIDS MILE

Mandy Trawick Has Love Of Cooking For Family, Offering Hospitality PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

Ann Cipperly

Southern

Hospitality

A

s she passes on her family’s traditions, Mandy Trawick enjoys preparing meals and spending time at the dining table with husband Todd and their “Brady bunch” family of six children and two grandchildren. She also enjoys opening their home to guests for offering hospitality.

Mandy’s other love is her job as the director of physician recruitment and physician outreach at East Alabama Health. Since 2019, Mandy, along with the East Alabama Health administrative team, including President and CEO Laura Grill, have

welcomed over 65 new physicians.

“God has blessed us with an incredible hospital, physicians, nurses, hospital administrators and community,” Mandy said. “I have the privilege of playing a small part in the growth of the hospital.”

Mandy grew up in Clarksdale, Mississippi, where her grandparents and other family lived.

Later, her parents moved to Germantown, Tennessee, outside Memphis.

She is named after both grandmothers, her paternal grandmother Mildred, and her maternal grandmother Ann, called Mama Ann.

While grandmother Mildred was a good cook who followed recipes carefully, Mandy is more like Mama Ann, who cooked by taste without measuring.

Mandy’s mother, Dibbie, was also an excellent cook and baked yummy cakes and breads. When she was growing up, Mandy enjoyed being in the kitchen watching Mama Ann and her mother cook.

Mandy’s family always ate their meals around the table without the television on, and it is a tradition she has continued for her family.

“I don’t remember sitting anywhere else to eat

AACT Young Performers Take on Shakespeare, the Roaring 20s in “Twelfth Night” Upcoming Adult Auditions and Youth Classes Announced CONTRIBUTED BY AACT Auburn Area Community Theatre is in full swing. Next in the season is the Young Performers, ages 13 through 18, with a distinctive adaptation of Shakespeare’s classic romantic comedy about mistaken identity and self-discovery.

“Twelfth Night” is fast paced and packed with romance and practical jokes. Join Viola as See AACT, page A8

Mandy Trawick enjoys cooking for her husband Todd and their blended family. She also has a love for her work as the director of physician recruitment and physician outreach at East Alabama Health. Pictured are, from left, Jessica Trawick, Hope Trawick, Scott Trawick, Todd Trawick, Mandy Trawick, Amanda Trawick, R.C. Trawick, Hampton Finklea, John Spencer Finklea, Beau Finklea, Grant Trawick and Kayla Trawick.

but at the table with family when I was growing up,” she says. “It was time to catch up with what was going on with everyone.”

Mandy raised her children the same, and they sit at the table to catch up without the television on and no phones. “That is when I learn about their day,” Mandy said. “I always prepare something to eat and we sit together, which is more important than what we are eating.”

Another tradition Mandy

has continued is making holidays special by setting the table with fine silver and china like her mother and Mama Ann. “It was so pretty and festive, so I have tried to do the same on special holidays,” Mandy said. “There have been a few holidays that paper plates worked better, but I could see a slight glimpse of disappointment in my children’s faces because it is just not the same. My thought is if you have it passed down to you, then

use it and enjoy it.”

After Mandy and Todd married in 2019, she went from having three boys to a blended family with five boys, one girl, two daughters-in-laws, two grandchildren and a dog. “When we meet people,” Mandy said, “Todd tells them that we are the “Brady bunch.”

Their family includes Beau Finklea, 21; Hampton Finklea, 18; John Spencer Finklea, 13; Scott See CIPPERLY, page A10

Sundilla Presents Meaghan Ferrell CONTRIBUTED BY SUNDILLA Sundilla will welcome Meaghan Farrell on Friday, Feb. 18. Showtime at Pebble Hill is 7:30 p.m.

Advance tickets are just $15 and can be found at Spicer’s Music, Ross House Coffee and online at sundillamusic.com; admission at the door will be $20.

As an emerging singersongwriter in New York City and Nashville, Farrell didn’t know her own power. Or, maybe it would be more accurate to say that she simply didn’t know how to harness it.

She had always loved to sing, turning heads with her strong voice at a young age in her hometown of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.

FERRELL Farrell knew early that she was meant to write songs, perform and connect with people. For several years she did just that — writing and producing a number of independent recordings, gathering experience and confidence as she toured around the country in support of her music.

Driving around the country as a touring

singer-songwriter can be a lonely proposition, with lots of time to think behind the wheel, to get to know one’s self. It was on this journey of self-discovery that Farrell realized that her artist voice was actually the voice inside her own head. Her philosophy is simple — the best version of yourself has always been there, it is often too noisy to hear that voice. The trick is to quiet the world, quiet yourself until you can truly hear it. The clarity. The calm. The love.

With her powerful new music, Farrell aspires to be heard for many years to come.

For more information, including videos, go to www.sundillamusic. com.

VIDEO GAMES • COMICS • POSTERS ART • ANTIQUES • COINS VINTAGE JEWELRY • TOYS POKEMON • MTG • SPORTS CARDS

221 9th St, Opelika • 334.741.0808

A8 Feb. 17, 2022

Making the Grade: Maffia’s Italian Restaurant PHOTOS BY MIKE WALLACE

STACEY PATTON WALLACE

H

appy Belated Valentine’s Day! Since this review will be printed on Feb. 17, the Good Lord willing, I hope everyone had a wonderful holiday.

My sweet husband Mike has been my Valentine since 2004, and each Valentine’s Day has been special.

Because he loves me, he sends me what I love — a dozen beautiful, long-stemmed red roses. When we were dating, I told Mike that flowers (especially roses) and jewelry would always be perfect gifts for me; I’m just not a fan of practical presents. Therefore, I also told him that cooking utensils and cleaning appliances would not be good gift ideas for me AT ALL. As I used to explain to my female students, sometimes men or boys need help, so tell them what you like. To my horror, Mike told his male students, “Break up with your girlfriend before Valentine’s Day or Christmas so that you won’t have to buy them a gift.” Thank you, Mr. Romance.

I gently berated my husband for giving his boys this terrible

advice; however, a lot of men aren’t that fond of Valentine’s Day. For instance, although Mike is happy to buy me roses, he doesn’t “get” why they make me feel so special.

“Those roses will be dead in a week,” Mike says, shaking his head in disbelief. Doesn’t matter; they make me happy.

But then, I don’t understand why Mike wanted a gift card to a local hardware store for Valentine’s Day. Really sounded boring to me, but I wanted him to be happy, too, so he received one.

Another thing which made Mike and me happy recently was going to Maffia’s Italian Restaurant at 811 S. Railroad Ave. in beautiful downtown Opelika. I was really sad when the original Ma Fia’s Ristorante closed awhile back.

The new Maffia’s has a new spelling, owners and menu. The restaurant opened on Jan. 27.

The owners are cousins: Tony and Nick Demaj. They are originally from Albania, but they have lived in Opelika for 20 years.

Mike and I met

our friends Jack and William for supper at Maffia’s. Tony, the co-owner of Maffia’s, was also our server. He apologized, saying that the restaurant would soon have more service staff. Not to worry.

Tony was fast, kind and a total delight. I predict much success for Tony and Nick.

For our appetizer, Mike and I chose the garlic cheese bread; it was delicious, so warm, cheesy and flavorful.

Again, you can never have too much cheese.

Jack, William and I ordered house salads. They were crisp, fresh and tasty. Also, I was glad to see that

AACT

Callbacks will be on March 3 from 6 to 8 p.m. Come either or both audition days, and read from the scripts provided. Set, props and other volunteers are also welcome to come to auditions.

Rehearsals will be on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6 to 8 p.m. beginning on March 7 and will continue to performance dates. Not every performer will be required for every rehearsal. Performance Dates will be May 13, 14, 19, 20 and 21 at 7 p.m. and May 15 and 22 at 2 p.m.

Lastly, but not least, registration for AACT Academy spring classes is open! ACT I, II and III classes cover ages 5 to 18. Classes run March 17 through May 19, with the final presentation on May 19 from 5 to 6 p.m. These acting classes are for beginners to advanced students. Come and learn new skills, or build on previous theater experience. Classes are designed to inspire imagination, creativity, teach teamwork and build confidence. Students will be exposed to theater fundamentals through scene works, improv activities and more.

This term the classes

are performance based.

Cost is $70/child. Sibling discounts and need-based scholarships are available.

Scholarship forms and details are available at www.auburnact.org.

Classes are on Thursdays from 4 to 5 p.m. (ACT I) or 5 to 6 p.m. (ACT II & III).

Please visit www. auburnact.org for more information or contact info@auburnact.org with any questions.

Auburn Area Community Theatre is a non-profit organization that exists to serve the Auburn/ Opelika Community. Its purpose is to provide an opportunity for education and participation in the world of theatre and present a quality, entertaining and thought-provoking theatre experience. AACT is a volunteer organization that depends on the time and energy of many wonderful people from within the community. There’s something for everyone. Visit www.auburnact.org to find the volunteer interest form or email info@auburnact. org to get involved.

Follow AuburnACT on Facebook or keep up with the organization at www.

AuburnACT.org for the latest information on auditions, volunteer opportunities, tickets and more.

>>

FROM A7

she journeys through the whimsical land of Illyria and meets an amazing cast of characters set in the 1920s. With a run-time of approximately 60 minutes, this abridged version is a great introduction to Shakespeare.

Performances are scheduled for February 25, 26, 28 and March 3, 4 and 5, at 6:30 p.m. with matinees on February 26th & March 5 at 2 p.m.

Tickets are $10 for adults and $8 for students and seniors. Monday Feb. 28 is Family Night and all tickets are $8. Call 334-246-1084 or visit www.auburnact. org for ticket purchases and more information. Email info@auburnact.org for group rate information.

Additionally, AACT will be holding Open Auditions for “Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike.” No previous experience is necessary. Four women and two men are needed for this Tony award-winning comedy.

Auditions will be held at the Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center on Feb. 28 and March 1 from 6 to 8 p.m. and are open to anyone age 17 and up.

our salads had dark greens, which are very nutritious.

For his entrée, Mike ordered the chicken Alfredo, while I chose the chicken marsala.

Both Jack and William selected the lasagna.

All our meals were wonderful. Maffia’s is a DEFINITE do over, and I’m thrilled to have another restaurant I love in downtown Opelika.

Besides our marvelous garlic cheese bread, Maffia’s other appetizers include: cheese sticks, calamari, mussels marinara, fried cheese ravioli and fried beef ravioli.

Also, Maffia’s

Italian Restaurant offers diners a huge selection of entrees, some of which include: manicotti, cannelloni, lobster ravioli, chicken Murphy, chicken Genova, salmon piccata, red snapper, shrimp scampi, shrimp creamora and Cajun seafood pasta.

For dessert, the four of us were good and split a tiramisu. Oh, my two times. Maffia’s other luscious desserts included: lady finger cookies, Italian cream cake, buttermilk cake, cannoli, fried pasta sheet, limoncello cake and limoncello sponge.

Maffia’s Italian Restaurant is closed on

Monday. The restaurant is open Sunday and Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Maffia’s Italian Restaurant makes the grade with an A+ from this retired English teacher. Remember, “Pooh-sized” people NEVER lie about food.

Enjoy!

Stacey Patton Wallace, who retired from teaching language arts for 30 years, is a professional diner.

Her column, “Making the Grade,” will appear each week in the Observer. Stacey may be reached at retiredlangartsteacher2020@ gmail.com

A9 Feb 17, 2022

Once again the St. Dun’s Buns of St. Dunstan’s Episcopal Church has exceeded all expectations in the baking for donations project. This month, the group has chosen two non profit organizations to recognize through donating the proceeds of baking for a donation. The photo on the left is Baby Steps of Auburn University, represented by Sommer Ingram and Michell Ingram.

PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED BY THE OBSERVER

St. Duns Buns Gives Back

The photo on the right is Tutwiler Prison Birth Project, represented by Ashley Lovell.

The recipients also received a loaf of fresh bread baked by Judy Simon.

St. Dun’s Buns is a project of the Mary and Martha Guild at St. Dunstan’s. In the past year, this organization has donated over $3000 to worthy non-profit organizations in and around Lee County. Baked goods may be ordered and donations made to St. Dun’s Buns through its Signup Genius which can be accessed on the St. Dun’s Buns Facebook page

OPD Spreads Love

PHOTOS BY ROBERT NOLES / THE OBSERVER

Through the generosity of an anonymous donor, the Opelika Police Department surprised the children at the Potter Daniel Boys And Girls Club Of Opelika with Valentines and were able to gift a few families some cash. OPD also visited residents of Opelika Housing Authorly locations on Pleasant Drive and Antioch Drive and distributed Valentines and hugs.

A10 Feb. 17, 2022

New Opera Brings Spotight to Helen Keller CONTRIBUTED BY OPERA BIRMINGHAM

Opera Birmingham announces the creation of a new opera about the life of Helen Keller, premiering in 2024. The opera, titled Touch, focuses on Helen Keller’s adult life and the profound accomplishments that she and her teacher, Anne Sullivan Macy, achieved as humanitarians and activists. The title, Touch, brings to mind not only the means through which Keller communicated, but also the impact she had on others. The world premiere of Touch is set to take place in Birmingham in January 2024, bringing national attention to the state of Alabama.

Opera Birmingham has commissioned outstanding American composer/librettist Carla Lucero and co-librettist Marianna Mott Newirth to create this new opera about the life of Helen Keller, celebrated 20th century deaf and blind author and activist, and Anne Sullivan Macy, her teacher, confidant and friend. Initial information on the project is available at www.operabirmingham.org/touch and will expand as more details are announced.

The opera Touch picks up where the play The Miracle Worker ends, exploring the complicated relationship between Helen Keller, Anne Sullivan Macy, John Macy (Anne’s husband) and Peter Fagan (Helen’s interpreter and star-crossed lover). Touch addresses themes of disability and the capacity of individuals to act independently and make their own free choices. A world-renowned humanitarian, Helen Keller fiercely advocated for women’s suffrage, civil rights and disability rights. Her monumental achievements over 80 years shed light on society’s darkest disabilities. She saw the need for a balanced world, heard the cry of the oppressed and

CIPPERLY >>

FROM A7

Trawick, 36, and his wife, Jessica and their daughter Hope, 4; Grant Trawick, 28, and his wife Kayla; and Amanda Trawick 31, and her son R.C., 9. Their dog, Hannah, who is also part of the family, is 13.

Todd, who is a dental manufacturer rep for Dentsply Sirona, also enjoys cooking and grilling. He is sharing favorite tailgate recipes, including his hearty chili with assorted meats. Todd and Mandy look forward to the fall season for tailgating on the Auburn campus and at home for away games.

Mandy recently began pulling some of the family’s recipes together as she realized she would have another son leaving the nest in the fall. When

as the Keller family and Anne plot to end it without Helen’s knowledge, leaving her with the impression that Peter has abandoned her. The opera ends with Helen holding Anne’s hand as Anne dies. Distraught with grief, Helen speaks the first and last words we hear from her lips, “Teacher.”

spoke for them.

Keller’s passion was equally present in her personal life. Touch tenderly captures the humanity of her life, characteristics often overlooked in such an iconic figure. She was quick-witted and playful, devoted and fiercely loving, and as interested in reading Jane Austin’s romantic novels as the philosophy of Walt Whitman.

This 90 minute, twoact chamber opera is written in English and will be performed in English, interpreted in American Sign Language (ASL). The text of the opera will be projected above the stage.

The production features three principal singing roles (Anne Sullivan Macy, John Macy and Peter Fagan). An actor plays the role of Helen Keller, and there is an ensemble of six singers, representing Helen’s voice and doubling in secondary roles. The score will be orchestrated for seven players: flute, bassoon, percussion, prepared piano and string trio.

Touch represents Opera Birmingham’s commitment to telling diverse stories of our community and providing access to a wide range of artists and patrons. This production will include low-vision and low-hearing artists in all facets of the opera.

Opera Birmingham is also ensuring accessibility for audience members, from ASL interpreters at performances and Braille program notes to assisted listening devices and audio description services.

Opera Birmingham’s general director, Keith A. Wolfe-Hughes shared, “One of our focuses is producing work which speaks to our modern day lives, to go beyond the great romantic love stories in classic operas to connect with stories of our world around us. When we heard about Carla’s proposal for composing Touch, it was almost

like a lightning bolt hit me. We just had to do this opera. It’s a story with deep Alabama connections, about two remarkable women who worked tirelessly on so many civil rights issues.

Additionally, they had a very complex relationship to each other. All of these elements come together for a very powerful story, which is perfect for the operatic stage.”

As part of Opera Birmingham’s Birmingham Speaks series of community conversations inspired by opera, the plans include panel discussions and roundtable conversations around the premiere of Touch, featuring the creators of the opera, guest speakers on the life and work of Helen Keller, and representatives from organizations working in the low-vision/ low-hearing community.

“We expect this premier will bring national attention to our state," said Elanor Parker Walter, Opera Birmingham's director of marketing and community engagement. " It also provides the opportunity for economic impact, as Opera Birmingham employs local artists on stage and behind the scenes, and as this world premiere encourages tourism to our state.”

The creation of Touch has been made possible, in part, by a generous contribution from UAB Callahan Eye Hospital & Clinic, Marty Jeiven, Fred Elsas and his wife, and by a grant from the

Alabama State Council on the Arts. A workshop of the opera will take place in Fall 2022 at the Seagle Festival in upstate New York.

For more information regarding Opera Birmingham and upcoming performances, visit OperaBirmingham.org or call 205-322-6737, and connect with Opera Birmingham on Facebook, Twitter @OperaBham, and Instagram @OperaBirmingham. Opera Birmingham, Alabama’s largest professional opera company, has entertained audiences for over 65 years SYNOPSIS Touch begins when Helen Keller is admitted to Radcliffe College in 1900, after her teacher and mentor, Anne Sullivan, makes her case to a skeptical dean through letters of recommendation from Mark Twain and Alexander Graham Bell. As Helen becomes a celebrated writer, the extraordinary, but codependent relationship between her and Anne is tested when Anne marries the drunken and philandering John Macy. As the marriage unravels, Helen discovers her calling as an anti-war and women’s suffrage activist, and an emotionally drained Anne becomes ill. She hires Peter Fagan, a young interpreter, to take her place as she recovers. A romantic relationship begins between Helen and Peter.

The romance is doomed,

CREATOR BIOGRAPHIES Carla Lucero studied composition at CalArts with composers Rand Steiger, Morton Subotnick and Leonard Rosenman. Her first opera, WUORNOS, about the tragic life of Aileen Wuornos, premiered at Yerba Buena Center for the Arts, winning “10 Best of Stage” from The Advocate and Out magazines. Her second opera, Juana, with co-librettist Alicia Gaspar de Alba, premiered with Opera UCLA in 2019, winning “12 Best of Fall 2019” by the LA Times.

Juana, a Spanish language opera about 17th century Mexican feminist icon, Sor Juana Inés de la Cruz, premiered in New York in August 2021 with dell’Arte Opera Ensemble. Lucero was a recipient of Opera America’s Discovery Grant for the composition of Juana.

Her opera, touch, about Helen Keller is in development with co-librettist, Marianna Mott Newirth. A new ballet, House of Names, by choreographer Marika Brussel, premiered virtually in San Francisco in October 2020 at ODC Theater. Lucero has commissions from Earplay, the Mexico City Philharmonic, Collage Dance Theater, Orquesta Marga-Marga, ComuArte International, and the Women’s Peninsula Choir, among others.

Marianna Mott Newirth is a New York librettist, playwright and creative producer. Her commissioned opera works with composer Mike von der Nahmer include Musical Tales Concerto, New Ulm,

her sons leave home for college, she wants them to feel confident in their cooking ability. Her middle son, Hampton, has been learning to cook by preparing dinner once a week.

“We quickly figured out that he learns better reading the recipe and doing it himself without me hovering over him,” she said. “He is in the kitchen, and I am nearby in case he has questions. It has been a special time, and I am looking forward to many more until he leaves the nest.”

Mandy is sharing recipes that are her sons’ favorites. One favorite, Baked Chicken in Sour Cream Sauce, is comfort food that she cooks if anyone is not feeling well or is having a bad day. When her sons go hunting or are away

from home, she will have the chicken baking when they come home to have the house filled with a savory aroma. She serves the chicken, rice and green beans cooked with bacon.

The Italian Delight is her aunt’s recipe that she also makes often. Her youngest son always called the pork tenderloin his “favorite chicken dish” and the name stuck. They still call it that. Mandy serves the pork with the consume rice, green beans and cornbread.

Other favorites include her mother’s go-to salad, as well as salad with fruit that is her best friend’s grandmother’s recipe. It is also Todd’s favorite salad.

Following the tradition set by her mother and Mama Ann, Mandy serves toppings to mix with vegetables, and she is sharing the

recipes.

While Mandy enjoys spending time at the dinner table with her family, she feels blessed in many ways, including having a job that she looks forward to every day.

After she graduated from Ole Miss, Mandy moved to Montgomery and worked as a pharmaceutical rep that was hospital based for 15 years. The family moved to Auburn in 2010. In 2011, Mandy went to work at the hospital as the physician liaison and recruiter, and soon afterward, added the title of EAMC Foundation director.

Last August, Susan Cowart was hired to run the Foundation in order for Mandy to focus on physician recruitment and physician outreach. As the area continues to grow,

East Alabama Health has grown and expanded. Auburn is second in growth in the state, while Opelika is in the top 20 in growth.

Mandy enjoys her work and spending time with the new physicians as they settle into the area.

“I love my work,” she said. “I get to use my ‘southern Delta’ background. My mom and grandmother were great entertainers as they served people with food. I like to bring people together in my home. That is my love language.”

Mandy has a gift for being a connector.

“When physicians commit to working here, I want them to connect to others and stay forever raising their kids and grandkids. I host a small group including some of the newer women physi-

MN; Blue Hum, Toronto, ON; Where is the Stillness, Bonn, Germany; and Transportation Transformation, New York City. She was co-librettist for Growing Young, Brooklyn SU-CASA, Brooklyn, NY; and Nia Wa Ja Shu, Munich. She dramaturged for Princess Maleine by composer Whitney George and librettist Bea Goodwin. Marianna’s straight theatrical works include Bachelor’s Agreement, Correspondence Theory, and Interabled. She is Artistic Administrator for dell’Arte Opera Ensemble and serves on the board of New York Opera Alliance. Independently she is producing the video opera When Falling...Dive and is in the first cohort of the BMP-Producer Academy.

TIMELINE PAST DEVELOPMENT: June 2019 – Opera Birmingham and Carla Lucero connect at the Opera America Conference during the New Works Forum. Discussions begin on commissioning of the project.

February 2021 – Virtual libretto workshop, with cast members from the low-vision and low-hearing community, with a public reading and feedback session.

Two subsequent virtual libretto readings take place, as the story and script are refined.

October 2021 – Final draft of libretto approved. Carla Lucero begins composing.

FUTURE PLANS: Summer 2022 – Piano/vocal score delivered. Workshop hosted at Seagle Festival in upstate New York.

Fall 2022 – Piano/vocal reading/workshop hosted in Birmingham, Alabama.

2023 – Final draft of piano/vocal, and orchestra score delivered (finalized by November 2023). January 2024 – World premiere of Touch in Birmingham, Alabama.

cians or physician spouses in town. It is a pleasure to be a part of their life and watch them flourish in the community.

“I enjoy what both Opelika and Auburn have to offer. I have the pleasure of showing off two different communities with different restaurants, hotels and quaint downtown areas, and we all can take advantage of both areas.”

She feels physician candidates visit and fall in love with the area.

“We are blessed to live in this community,” Mandy said. “Physicians instantly see the community support and love for the hospital. I feel people are incredibly welcoming with a ‘come on and join us’ attitude. We have a southern, comforting appeal, and the area pretty much sells itself.”

A11 Feb 17, 2022

CHLOE ARNOLD

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February 28th, Opelika Center For The Performing Arts at 7:30PM Presented by: East Alabama Arts

CELEBRATING

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A12 Feb. 17, 2022

CIPPERLY RECIPES >> MANDY’S FAVORITE “GO TO” SALAD My mom made this all the time and it used to drive friends crazy because there are no measurements.

I learned how to do it just like her, and now she wants me to do it for her when she visits.

Spring mix and iceberg lettuce, mixed Thinly sliced onion and bell pepper Add: Tomatoes Dried cranberry mix or fruit and nut mix Feta cheese Crispy red pepper from salad toppings at the store Garlic salt and pepper Red or white wine vinegar and peanut oil Depending on size of salad 1-2 Tbsp. of Hellman’s mayonnaise Combine all ingredients and mix together.

SPRING MIX FRUIT SALAD Todd’s favorite Salad Spring Mix Any fruit combination (apples, oranges, grapes, peaches, berries) Some type of dried fruit and nut mix Goat cheese Honey and Hellman’s mayonnaise, mixed together Combine all ingredients.

BAKED CHICKEN WITH SOUR CREAM SAUCE This is Finklea boys’ comfort food. I make this when someone is sick, hurt or just having a bad day.

8 oz. sour cream 1 can cream of mushroom soup 1 Tbsp. cooking sherry 4 chicken breasts, best if not real thick Crushed Ritz crackers mixed with melted butter for topping Combine sour

cream, mushroom soup and sherry.

Pour over chicken breasts in a baking pan. Top with crushed crackers mixed with melted butter.

Bake at 350 degrees for an hour.

I usually double this to feed my family. We serve this with white rice and a can of green beans mixed with bacon fat and bouillon cubes.

MOM’S REFRIGERATOR CAKE Box of Duncan Hines yellow cake mix Eagle brand sweetened condensed milk Large can of crushed pineapple, drained Cool Whip Coconut mixed with finely chopped pecans Bake the cake per instructions on box. While hot, poke holes into the cake and pour the condensed milk all over it. Spread a can of well drained crushed pineapple on top, then put in refrigerator. When cool, spread Cool Whip on cake and sprinkle coconut and pecans on top.

GRANDMOTHER MILDRED FOY’S APRICOT NECTAR CAKE In a large bowl sift together: 1 pkg. Duncan Hine yellow cake mix 1 box lemon Jell-O Add: 4 eggs 1 cup vegetable oil ¾ cup apricot nectar Mix well and beat for 4 minutes. Pour batter in a greased and floured 9 by 13 inch pan. Bake 1 hour at 325 degrees.

Remove from oven and leave in pan for 10 minutes. Place on a plate and spread with glaze while warm.

Glaze: 1 cup confectioners’ sugar Juice from 1 ½

lemons Combine ingredients together.

CRAWFISH CHOWDER One of the boy’s favorites. Can cook in crockpot until throughout hot or in a large pot on stovetop.

1 stick butter 1 bunch green onions, sautéed 8 oz. cream cheese 1 pint whipping cream or half and half 1 can whole kernel sweet corn, drained 1 can cream of mushroom soup 2 cans cream of potato soup 2 Tbsp. Tony’s Creole seasoning 2 pkg. crawfish tails Combine all ingredients in a crockpot and heat until hot and ready to serve. Serve the chowder over rice.

I usually double the recipe and only use 3 packs of crawfish tails.

FIERY CAJUN SHRIMP My roommate from Ole Miss was Catherine Lester.

Her mom made this every time we came to visit, and then my mama would start making this dish every time I came home from school.

1 cup butter 1 cup margarine ½ cup Worcestershire sauce ¼ cup lemon juice ¼ tsp. ground pepper 1 tsp. hot sauce 2 tsp. salt 4 cloves garlic, minced 5 lb. unpeeled medium size fresh shrimp 2 lemons Thinly sliced French bread Combine first 8 ingredients and pour half of mixture in a large ceramic heat proof dish. Layer shrimp and lemon slices in sauce, pour remaining sauce over shrimp and lemons.

Bake uncovered at 400 degrees for 20 minutes or until shrimp are pink,

stirring twice. Drain sauce and serve with shrimp and French bread. Makes 6 to 8 servings.

ITALIAN DELIGHT Aunt Libby from Clarksdale, Mississippi, made this all the time.

1 onion, chopped 1 lb. ground beef 1 can cream of mushroom soup 1 can tomato bisque 1 can whole kernel corn 2 Tbsp. chili powder 1 pkg. flat egg noodles 1 pkg. shredded sharp shredded cheese for topping Brown onions and meat in skillet. Add mushroom soup, tomato bisque, corn and chili powder. Let simmer for an hour.

Cook noodles as directed on package; drain and add to sauce. Put in greased casserole dish and add grated cheese on top. Bake at 350 degrees for 1 hour.

MARINATED GREEN BEANS 4 cans French style green beans 8 Tbsp. brown sugar 8 Tbsp. bacon grease 4 Tbsp. prepared mustard 8 Tbsp. white vinegar 8 strips curly fried bacon Heat beans in own liquid. When they are warm, drain and put in a 3 qt. dish.

Heat bacon grease, sugar, mustard and vinegar and pour over the beans.

Crumble bacon over the top and serve at room temperature.

Serves 12.

TODD’S CHILI 1 large pkg. spicy sausage 1 ½ lbs. diced beef stew meat 1 ½ Tbsp. chili powder ½ tsp. crushed red pepper 6 slices bacon 1 green pepper, chopped 3 Tbsp. chopped

Jalapeno Peppers ¼ tsp. oregano 1 can pinto bean, drained 1 cup chopped onion 1 clove minced garlic (we use more) ½ tsp. salt 2 ½ cups water 12 oz. can tomato paste Cook bacon in pan until crisp, drain on paper towellined plate and then crumble. Brown sausage in the bacon grease. Drain the sausage on a paper towel-lined plate.

Add the stew meat, onions, green pepper and garlic to the pan and cook until meat is brown.

In a large pot, add the browned stew meat, onions, green peppers, garlic, bacon sausage, jalapeno peppers, chili powder, crushed red pepper, salt and oregano and stir.

Add water and tomato paste and continue to stir.

Bring to a boil, simmer uncovered for 1 ½ to 2 hours, stirring occasionally.

Stir in beans and simmer for 30 minutes.

TODD’S MEXICAN TAILGATE DIP 16 oz. cream cheese, room temperature 16 oz. jar salsa Green onions, chopped Olives Mix the cream cheese and salsa.

Add green onions and olives. Serve with chips and enjoy.

GRANDMOTHER MAMA ANN’S AND MOM’S VEGETABLE TOPPINGS For yummy Sunday vegetable dinners, my grandmother and mom would serve toppings for the vegetables. They would cut up cucumbers, and mix with onion slices and add white vinegar. They were then placed in the refrigerator until ready to serve. Salt and pepper was

added.

They would also serve chopped onions and tomatoes mixed with Helman’s mayonnaise and salt and pepper.

BAKED PORK TENDERLOIN My baby son used to say, “Make my favorite chicken.”

It was this, but they loved it. I serve it with Consume Rice Casserole and green beans.

Garlic salt Pork tenderloin 1 bottle chili sauce Red wine Honey Minced garlic Season both sides of meat with garlic salt. Pour remaining ingredients over the meat. Bake at 400 for 1 hour. Ladle sauce over meat every 30 minutes.

MAMA’S CONSUME RICE CASSEROLE 1 cup white rice 1 can Campbell’s beef consume 1 can Campbell’s French onion soup ½ stick to 1 stick butter, melted In a casserole, combine all ingredients. Cover and bake at 350 degrees for 45 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.

CREAM CHEESE CHICKEN CHILI Put 2 chicken breasts in a crockpot.

Add: 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed 1 can corn, undrained 10 oz. can Rotel tomatoes with green chilis, not drained 1 pkg. ranch dressing mix 1 tsp. cumin 1 Tbsp. chili powder 1 tsp. onion powder ½ cup water Then place on top: 8 oz. pkg. cream cheese Combine ingredients except cream cheese and then place cream cheese on top. Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours. After the cooking time is over, take chicken out and shred. Then add to the chili and enjoy.

A13 Feb 17, 2022

A14 Feb. 17, 2022

When a Little Water Gets in Our Boat

BRUCE GREEN Teaching Minister at 10th Street Church of Christ in Opelika

T

he familiar story of Jesus calming the storm is presented

by Mark through a series of contrasts (4:35-41).

There is an initial contrast in the early actions of the story (Jesus is asleep while the disciples are afraid). Then there is the contrast between their question (“Teacher, don’t you care if we drown?”) and Jesus’ questions (“Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?”). Finally,

there is a contrast between the disciples’ initial fear of the storm and their fear at the end of this incident (“They were terrified and asked each other, “Who is this? Even the wind and the waves obey Him.”).

Let’s start with Jesus.

It’s a miracle to us that He could sleep through such a storm. That’s certainly attributable to His trust in His Father, but I think it’s also worth thinking about the fatigue He must have experienced at times in His ministry. We’re in a section where the demands being made on Him have been non-stop. The whole purpose of their trip across the lake was to get away from the people for a while. If He stayed on land, they would have continued to pursue Him. In regard to the disciples, it should be noted that at least four of them were fisherman, so a

little water in the boat wouldn’t bother them, but clearly this was not that.

It was a “furious squall” (v. 37) — the kind of thing they recognized as being beyond their experience and ability.

Nonetheless, they weren’t alone — Jesus was with them. And they had seen Him do amazing things. He had healed people, casted out demons and they had even heard those beings bear witness to Jesus’ identity as the Son of God (3:11).

But now, with the sea raging, the boat rocking and Jesus sleeping, they took counsel from their fear rather than their faith. There’s no one reading this who can’t relate.

They didn’t care for the way Jesus was handling the situation and woke Him. They questioned His caring. Jesus spoke first to the wind and the waves like someone

would talk to their young child or an over friendly pet. Everything became “completely calm” (v. 39).

Then He spoke to His disciples. He asked them why they were so afraid. He had, after all, told them they were going over to the other side, hadn’t He? (v. 35).

Didn’t they believe that He could get them there?

This is why He follows with, “Do you still have no faith?”

This episode ends the only way it can. Rather than being stung by Jesus’ sharp words, the disciples were “terrified” by the great miracle they had just witnessed Jesus perform. Although they had diminished and marginalized Him only moments before, they seemed to realize they had seriously underestimated both His ability and His identity.

That’s a step in the right direction.

If Mark wrote this to disciples at Rome (and there’s good reason to believe he did), then the storm clouds that came with Nero’s persecution of the church were either on their way or were possibly even the occasion for him writing. Either way, the disciples would need a deeply rooted faith (v. 5, 16-17) if they were to survive the storm. They would need to understand that Jesus was more than capable of getting them to the other side. That Rome is no longer a kingdom but a tourist destination while the kingdom of Jesus exists all over the world is evidence that’s exactly what they did.

What do we do when a little water gets in our boat?

You can find more of Bruce’s writings at his website: a-tasteof-grace-with-brucegreen.com

ABOUT BRUCE GREEN You can find more of Bruce’s writings at his website: atasteofgracewithbrucegreen.com.

Hunley Group Lambert Transfer & Storage An Interstate Agent for North American Van Lines 1102 Fox Trail Opelika, AL 36803 745-5706

BIBLE VERSE OF THE WEEK As it is written: "No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what God has prepared for those who love him. — 1 Corinthians 2:9

Got Questions?

Come Study With Us

THE CHURCH OF CHRIST AT CUNNINGHAM DRIVE 2660 CUNNINGHAM DR., OPELIKA SUNDAY BIBLE STUDY 9:30 A.M. SUNDAY WORSHIP 10:30 A.M. / 5 P.M. WEDNESDAY BIBLE STUDY 6:30 P.M.

CHURCH DIRECTORY

APOSTOLIC HOLINESS

Emmanuel Temple of Deliverance Inc. 28 Sanford Ave., Opelika 334-745-0210 God’s House of Prayers Holiness Church 301 Highland Ave., Opelika 334-749-9672 True Deliverance Holiness Church 936 N. Donahue Dr., Auburn 334-502-4700

BAPTIST

Bethesda Baptist Church 201 S. 4th St., Opelika 334-745-7528 Beulah Baptist Church 5500 Lee Road 270, Valley 334-705-0538 Cooperative Baptist Fellowship 128 East Glenn Ave., Auburn 334-887-8506 Friendship Missionary Baptist Church 3089 Judge Brown Rd., Valley 334-710-2117 Greater Peace Missionary Baptist Church 650 Jeter Ave., Opelika 334-749-9487 Green Chapel Missionary Baptist 390 Lee Road 106, Auburn

(334) 749-4184 High Hope Baptist Church 227 Lee Road 673 334-524-8750 Lakeview Baptist Church 1600 E. Glenn Ave., Auburn 334-887-7094 Pepperell Baptist 2702 2nd Ave., Opelika 334-745-3108 Providence Baptist Church 2807 Lee Road 166, Opelika 334-745-4608

EPISCOPAL

Union Grove Baptist Church 4009 Lee Road 391, Opelika 334-749-0461

Church At Opelika 1901 Waverly Pkwy., Opelika 334-524-9148 Connect Church 2015 West Point Pkwy., Opelika 334-707-3949 St. Ellis Full Gospel Church 5267 US Hwy 80W, Opelika 334-298-4319

CHURCH OF CHRIST

Church of Christ at Cunningham 2660 Cunningham Dr., Opelika 10th Street Church Of Christ 500 N. 10th St., Opelika 334-745-5181 Church Of Christ 2215 Marvyn Pkwy., Opelika 334-742-9721 Southside Church Of Christ 405 Carver Ave., Opelika 334-745-6015

COMMUNITY OUTREACH

Good Sheperd Anglican Church 3015 Opelika Road, Opelika

Emmanuel Episcopal Church 800 1st Ave., Opelika 334-745-2054

METHODIST

Auburn United Methodist Church 137 South Gay St., Auburn 334-826-8800 Beulah United Methodist Church 5165 Lee Road 270, Valley 334-745-4755

NON-DENOMINATIONAL

PRESBYTERIAN

Trinity Presbyterian Church 1010 India Road, Opelika 334-745-4889

SEVENTH DAY ADVENTIST Opelika Outreach S.D.A. Church P.O. Box 386, Opelika 334-749-3151

OBITUARIES PETE OLDHAM Pete Oldham, 89, passed away at EAMC on Feb. 12, 2022. He was born on Sept. 24, 1932, in Barlow, Kentucky.

Pete attended college at Murray State University before joining the USAF in 1951. Pete was career Air Force achieving the rank of Lt. Colonel and participating as a navigator on C-119 and C-135 airplanes.

He retired after 24 years and sold defense contracts to the

Air Force thereafter. Pete was a member of First Baptist Opelika and taught Sunday School and participated in the choir.

Pete is survived by his wife of more than 64 years Mary Ann, daughter Leigh Ann Nall (Clint), son Mark Oldham (Lynnette Knesek), grandson Nicholas Oldham, brother Jack Oldham, niece Cathy Oldham and nephew Bryan Oldham.

Pete will be buried at the National Cemetery at Ft.

Campbell, Kentucky later this year. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to Samaritan’s Purse “Operation Heal our Patriots” program: www.samaritanspurse.org/ donation-items/operation-healour-patriots/.

––––––– MICHEAL W. PARKS Micheal W. Parks of the Beauregard Community was born in Columbus, Georgia, on July 26, 1956 and passed away

on Feb. 8, 2022. He was 65 years old.

Mr. Parks was a very proud 38-year retired veteran. He was a family man who loved his family and loved spending time with his children and grandbabies. Mr. Parks loved the great outdoors, camping with friends, tailgating and his western movies.

He was preceded in death by the love of his life, Tracey L. Parks; parents, Dorothy S. Moreland and Clarke J.

Moreland; granddaughter, Keiana Langford.

He is survived by his Children, Chris Parks, Danny (Nakeshia Parks), Crystal Langford; grandchildren, Addison, Layla Smith (Jerry), Shawnah, Landon and Kourtney Parks and Mya Parks.

Visitation was held Wednesday, Feb. 16, 2022, in the Parlor at Frederick-Dean Funeral Home from 5 to 7 p.m.

See OBITUARIES, page A15

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A15 Feb 17, 2022

Sometimes Wounded and Weary

WALTER ALBRITTON

A

fter the death of Moses, God revealed to Joshua that he was the new leader of the Israelites.

The Bible does not describe how Joshua reacted to this stunning assignment though I can imagine Joshua took a deep breath and said, “Oh my

goodness! Are you sure about this, Lord?”

There is reason to believe that Joshua wondered if he could handle the job for God finally reassures him by saying, “As I was with Moses, so I will be with you: I will not fail you, nor forsake you.” Then, perceiving that Joshua seemed a bit fearful, God tells him three times, “Be strong and courageous.”

When I read this biblical story, I like to believe that God has been saying the same thing to me all my life: “Walter, be strong and courageous and rest assured I will be with you just like I was with Moses and Joshua.”

But I must admit there are

times when I shrink back from being strong and courageous. I get tired of trying to be strong and I even wonder if God is truly with me. In those moments I feel weak, helpless and alone. And I long for even a small sign of His presence.

I thought about this recently when my dear friend Corine Free sent me a message of encouragement which included the words of one of my favorite songs, “Have Thine Own Way, Lord.” Corine had no way of knowing that I often walk about the house singing this hymn, especially when I am struggling with an uncertain issue. When I feel like giving

up, it helps to start singing, “Have Thine own way, Lord!

Thou are the Potter; I am the clay! Mold me and make me after Thy will.”

However, there are moments when I don’t feel like saying “I want to be clay in your hands, Lord.” I feel more like singing another verse in this song: “Wounded and weary, help me, I pray!

Power, all power, surely is Thine! Touch me and heal me, Savior divine!” Strong and courageous? No, weak and wounded, that’s me!

I was pleasantly surprised to discover that the author of this song, Adelaide Pollard, had written this song as a prayer during a time of great

disappointment. She had felt God calling her to go to Africa as a missionary but was unable to raise the financial support. Heartsick, and too weak to be strong and courageous, Adelaide attended a prayer meeting where she heard a woman pray, “It doesn’t matter what you bring into our lives, Lord. Just have your own way with us.” Those words stirred Adelaide’s heart and before bedtime that night she had written the song which has been loved by millions of Christians for two hundred years.

The final verse gives us the secret of how to overcome our moments of weakness

and become strong and courageous. When these words become the greatest desire of our hearts, we are on the way toward living as strong and courageous disciples of our Lord: Have Thine own way, Lord, Have Thing own way!

Hold o’er my being absolute sway!

Fill with Thy Spirit till all shall see, Christ only, always, living in me!

As important as it is to be strong and courageous as we face the trials of life, it is even more important to let God’s Spirit help us live so that others may see Christ living in us.

followed at Loachapoka Cemetery at 3:30 p.m. Pastor John Fox of Loachapoka UMC officiated.

remained active with real estate development projects. Mr. Fullington was a huge Auburn supporter and enjoyed golf, fishing, and outdoor activities.

Most of all he enjoyed spending time with his family and friends.

A memorial service for James Wofford Fullington, Sr. was held on Feb. 11, 2022, at 11 a.m. in the chapel of Auburn United Methodist Church.

He was interred at Auburn Memorial Gardens.

In lieu of flowers please send donations to Lee County Humane Society either in person or at leecountyhumane. org or St. Jude Children’s Hospital at stjude.org.

OBITUARIES HYOSEON LINDA LEE FARMER The Lord has received a beautiful soul in heaven. Linda, our beloved physician, mentor, friend, sister, wife and mother, left this world a little less bright on Feb. 15, 2022.

Linda was a compassionate and determined physician. Her patients loved her and trusted their lives to her. Linda's devotion, love and care for them was unsurpassed. She would never give up on them.

She walked hundreds, if not thousands, of journeys down the cancer road with them.

She knew their life story, she knew their hopes, dreams and fears. Linda was determined to help them live their lives to the best outcome. The patients and families who were in her care, will never know a fiercer fighter for them than Linda.

The staff at the Spencer Cancer Center loved their matriarch. Everyday she stood side by side with them to care and fight for her patients. She would rise early to make sure all tests, orders and schedules were complete. She would stay until the job was finished and make sure there were no stones left unturned. The sacrifice she made to care for others will never be truly known. Linda's legacy will be carried on by her colleagues and staff at The Spencer Cancer Center.

Linda was a competitor.

She challenged herself her whole life. Her determination took a 14-year-old immigrant girl from South Korea, who spoke no English at the time, to become the successful woman we all love. She was an avid runner. She ran two halfmarathons and 12 marathons as we watched from the sidelines.

When she set a goal, she saw it through then set another goal. She was always moving forward in life and never settled for "the status quo."

Linda was not confrontational but she was a strong protector of her family, friends, and patients. She was an advocate for what was right.

And boy was she stubborn!

When she drew her line in the sand you knew it. Not in an ugly way but when she knew she was right, she usually was, and it was futile to argue.

Linda loved to travel.

Disney cruises and especially the beach. These times shared with her family and friends were precious to her and those she loved. She loved the sun on her face and being able to relax.

We wish she could have made it to the beach one more time.

We know she is somewhere walking barefoot in the sand.

Linda loved, and we mean loved her University of North Carolina basketball team. She shared her love of all things UNC with her friends and patients but especially her family and niece JoAnn. She decorated her office and exam rooms with UNC memorabilia.

Her office was an extension of her passion that she shared with her patients and staff.

Linda never forgot a birthday or special occasion.

She always sent handwritten cards and gifts. We should practice the distinctive touch she showed in this way. It means the world to someone.

Linda would offer her home for celebrations. parties, showers, dinners for high school dances, senior photos, anything to share and bring happiness to others.

Linda would love for us to show random acts of kindness to each other.

Linda loved her family. She loved Kermit and Spencer. She loved Spencer from the first moment she saw him. Seeing a picture of Linda holding Spencer in the South Korean airport is the epitome of the unconditional love she had for him. Please hold Spencer in your heart for Linda. He is going to need her village to be there for him.

Kermit and Linda met at a dog park in Birmingham. Their love for dogs brought them together and they shared that love to the end. Chi, Cassie, and Hashbrown are all with her now. Ruby and Jordan (otherwise known as F5) will continue to hold the fort down here for a while longer.

Linda and Kermit were the Ying and Yang for each other for20 years. One of Kermit’s favorite quotes is Linda saying to him “I knew you loved me when I first saw your pupils dilate” which is soooo Linda.

Linda was the left-brain thinker, fact based, scientific, methodical planner. Kermit is the right brain thinker, creative, out of the box, visual planner. Together they made an unstoppable team. Kermit was always doing something “crazy” like showing up at home with Talbot's actual big red doors when the store closed in Auburn, to liberating a Krispy Kreme "hot now" sign and repurposing it into a pool table light. Linda would roll her eyes at most of these things, but the Talbot doors are still there and the Krispy Kreme pool light made a magical comeback in the past few years. That is how they rolled as a couple.

Most of all, Linda will be remembered as a child of God. She was a faithful servant throughout her life. Her selfless acts of love and kindness and the lives she touched will continue her legacy. Her purpose was to serve, which she did until the end.

We are all shocked and saddened by the loss of our friend. This world is a cruel place sometimes and situations happen that we cannot understand. This is one of those times. It is not supposed to be this way and it is surreal to all of us.

If you want to celebrate Linda Lee Farmer's life ... Be

kind to one another. Take care of one another. Linda spent her life as a beacon of hope for many. Hope was her gift to the world. It is our responsibility to carry this beacon of hope for her. Without hope there is nothing. Hope in the future.

The hope in meeting her again someday. When you think of Linda, she would want you to smile and believe in the hope of tomorrow. It is the least we can do to continue her legacy.

Linda is survived by her Godparents Tom and Vicki Hunt; her husband Kermit Paul Farmer III; her son Spencer Kermit Farmer; their dogs Ruby and Jordan; her Aunt Inae Manuel; her brother Junmo Lee (Youngshin), her sister Enjoo Joung (Yong); her nephews Andrew Joung and Josh Lee and her nieces Joanne Joung and Hannah Lee. She also leaves behind many beloved family and friends living in America, South Korea and Japan who will miss her beyond measure. We live to tell her story.

Donations can be made to the EAMC Foundation Spencer Cancer Center Patient Fund or The Lee County Humane Society.

The funeral service will be held at Auburn United Methodist Church on Feb. 26 at 2 p.m. CST. The church is located at137 S. Gay Street in Auburn. No visitation. No graveside service due to cremation.

All guests are encouraged to wear light blue (UNC blue) that attend.

––––––– TRACIE OLIVE-MOORE Tracie Olive-Moore, age 52, of Opelika, formerly of Fayetteville, Tennessee, and Huntsville, Alabama, passed away on Wednesday, Feb. 9, 2022. She was the beloved wife of William Moore for 20 years.

Born in Anniston, Alabama, Tracie was the daughter of Charlene Strickland, and the late Clyde Olive. She was a 1987 graduate of Lincoln County High School, Fayetteville, Tennessee, and obtained her B.S. degree from Middle Tennessee State University. She was an employee of Lee County Youth Development Center in Opelika.

She is survived by husband, William Moore, daughter Taylor Buchanan (fiancé Sam) and granddaughter Isabella, mother Charlene Strickland, brother Franklin Olive and family (Laura, Tyler, Ella), and brother David Olive and family (April, Lindsey, Ben, Erin), as well as numerous close friends, cousins and family.

Tracie enjoyed her familyespecially her granddaughter, Isabella. She also loved Auburn University (Cam Newton in particular) and listening to The Artist Formerly Known as

Prince. Tracie was a cherished wife, mother, daughter, sister, grandmother, and aunt. She was most well-known for loving those closest to her more than she loved herself, and will be greatly missed.

A graveside service was planned for Saturday, Feb. 12th at Town Creek Cemetery in Auburn.

––––––– DONNA JEAN ROWELL DEWBERRY Donna Jean Rowell Dewberry, 70, of Notasulga, Alabama, passed away, Feb. 9, 2022, at The Bethany House in Auburn. She was born on Feb. 22, 1951, in Auburn.

She worked for West Point Stevens, Opelika and Fairview Mills, for many years before retiring.

She was preceded in death by her father, Willie N Rowell, her mother, Jewell A Rowell, both of Loachapoka, Alabama, a brother, Billy Rowell of Notasulga, a sister, Annie Sue Barnett of Tennessee, and a son, David Mitchell Dewberry, of Valley, Alabama.

She is survived by a daughter, DeLana Ray, of Roanoke, Alabama, a son, Daniel Dewberry (Wendy), of Beulah, Alabama, and a beloved sister, Joyce Vansandt, of Millbrook, Alabama.

She has seven grandkids: Wesley Dewberry, Jessica Mills (Adam), Casey Hornsby, Amber Dewberry, Sara Dewberry, Hannah Moore, Kayla Cotter and 11 greatgrandchildren.

Funeral services were held at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home in Opelika, on Feb. 12, 2022.

Viewing was from noon to 2 p.m. with funeral starting at 2 p.m. A graveside service

––––––– JAMES WOFFORD FULLINGTON SR. Mr. Fullington affectionately known by his friends as “Big Jim” was born on March 5, 1931, in Birmingham, Alabama and passed away on Feb. 7, 2022, in Auburn, surrounded by loving family. Those who remain to embrace the memories of his life are his loving wife of 67 years, Mary Williams Fullington, daughter Shannon Fullington Holmes (Gerry), son James Wofford Fullington, Jr. (Rebecca), son William Todd Fullington (Harriet), son David Blair Fullington (Leigh), daughter Margaret Leigh Fullington, 10 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren. Those that have preceded him in death are his parents, Norma McCollum Fullington and William Joseph Fullington, his brother “Billy” Fullington, and sisters Mary Frances Bush and Josephine Simpson.

Mr. Fullington played football for Auburn University and was a member of Shug Jordan’s first football team. He graduated from Auburn University in 1954 and entered the US Air Force where he attained the rank of 1st Lieutenant and was honorably discharged in 1956.

Following his service, he was employed as a salesman by McNeil Laboratories after which he embarked upon an entrepreneurial career where he founded a country club and started a successful independent oil company.

After his retirement he

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––––––– HAROLD “THAD” ROGERS Thad, was born Feb. 25, 1952 in Opelika, Alabama. He passed away at East Alabama Medical Center on Feb. 7, 2022.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Diane Rogers; mother, Josephine Hamer; step-father, Earl Hamer; father, Harold Rogers and step-sister Catherine Taylor.

Proudly, Thad was the first baby boy born at Lee County Hospital (EAMC) and he ensured everyone he met knew it. He was also known for his love of fishing and his dedication to his job at Uniroyal by having perfect attendance for over 20 years.

He is survived by his daughter, Dr. Amy Rogers (Dr. Elizabeth Cantrell) of Auburn, Alabama; son, Michael Rogers (Leigh) of Fairhope, Alabama; Grandchildren, Libby Rogers, Logan Rogers, Henry Cantrell, Millie Cantrell and mother-inlaw Jeanette Barker.

A16 Feb. 17, 2022

COMICS

“Life is worth living as long as there’s a laugh in it.” ― Lucy Maud Montgomery, Anne of Green Gables

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INSIDE B1 - B8:

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• AUBURN CITY SCHOOLS • AUBURN UNIVERSITY • COMMUNITY SPORTS • LEE COUNTY SCHOOLS • OPELIKA CITY SCHOOLS • SUSSC

SCHOOL BOARD MEETINGS LEE COUNTY: MAR. 8 AT 6 P.M. AUBURN: MAR. 8 AT 6 P.M. OPELIKA: MAR. 22 AT 4:30 P.M.

Glenwood Girls Claim State!

Earn Back-to-Back Titles for First Time Since 2014-15

ON THE MARK D. MARK MITCHELL

Three OHS Wrestlers Qualify for State

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ight Opelika High School grapplers qualified to participate in the sectional wrestling meet last week in Montgomery. Two Opelika wrestlers, Brady Campbell (145 pounds) and Jack Pritchard (195 pounds) won their respective weight class and earned a spot in the AHSAA State Wrestling Tournament on Feb. 17 to 19 at the Van Braun Civic Center in Huntsville. Kyle Epperson qualified for the state tournament as well, finishing eighth in the 220-pound class.

The following is results from Opelika’s wrestlers: 120 pounds Derrick Hoyett (11-13) participated but did not score points.

126 pounds Brayden Wilson (2313) place is unknown and scored two team points.

Champ. Round 1 Brayden Wilson (23-13) received a bye.

Champ. Round 2 Chase Lee (Spanish Fort) 25-11 won by decision over Wilson.

Cons. Round 2 Wilson received a bye.

Cons. Round 3 Wilson won by decision over Carson Thomas (Elmore County School, 18-6).

Cons. Round 4 Caleb Mooney (Shelby County, 55-15) won in sudden victory (7-5) over Wilson.

132 pounds Tyrese Pitts’ (6-4) place is unknown and scored 4.0 team points.

Champ. Round 1 - Nathan McCain (Mountain Brook, 41-16) won by fall (2:20) over Pitts.

Cons. Round 1 - Pitts received a bye.

Cons. Round 2 - Pitts won by decision (32) over Dan Bulens (Russell County, 33-22).

Cons. Round 3 - Pitts won by major decision (13-4) over Cody Godwin (Elberta HS, 6-16).

Cons. Round 4 - Jared Cherry Daniel (Stanhope Elmore, 22-7) won by fall (1:50) over Pitts.

138 pounds Logan Sheridan (12-9) scored 0.0 team points.

Champ. Round 1 Tyler Mann (Wetumpka, 16-18) won by major decision (16-5) over Sheridan Cons. Round 1 Sheridan received a bye.

Cons. Round 2 - Russell Phillips (Tallassee, 23-11) won by decision (10-8) over Sheridan.

145 pounds Champion - Brady See SPORTS, page B3

PHTOO USED WITH PERMISSION

BY WIL CREWS SPORTSCREWS@ OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM

When Tuscaloosa Academy visited Glenwood for its annual “Border Wars” basketball tournament in December, head coach Dusty Purdue, senior point guard Jasmyn Burts and the rest of the Lady Gators knew they might see the Knights again.

The two teams did not face off in the Border Wars, but the Gators See GLENWOOD, page B5

OHS Men's Soccer Makes 2022 Debut

BY HARRISON TARR FOR THE OBSERVER Soccer season is officially underway for the Opelika Bulldogs and the opportunity is now laid before head coach Derek Hovell’s squad to leave a lasting impact on ASHAA soccer at the 6A level before making the jump to the next classification in 2023.

The Dawgs opened their 2022 campaign last week with a 2-1 loss against non-area opponent Stanhope Elmore; the head coach of the red and black expressed little concern, claiming that the defeat was merely part of the process.

“We had our opportunities,” Hovell said. “But it was one of those first game things where we just weren’t finishing the ball well. We actually had one of our center backs take a cleat to the knee so what we thought was our starting lineup quickly got changed.”

Between injuries sustained by starters in

the early going of the contest and the reality of in-game adjustments for a season opener, Hovell was encouraged by his team’s display.

“We had a few new guys have to pop in to the field that I don’t know if were quite ready to get in that soon,” Hovell said. “But we held our own until the second half and made some mistakes that allowed some goals.”

Learning their identity lies at the forefront of the Dawgs’ to-do list, given that the squad possesses large amounts of youth.

“We’re a little younger team,” Hovell said.

“When I say younger, several of the juniors are new to the varsity program but we do have some juniors that played a lot of games last year.”

According to the head coach, a sense of identity will come through the team’s pre-area schedule.

“None of the teams that we have scheduled are cupcakes,” Hovell said. “They’re

all talented teams, they all have talented programs historically. It was meant that way for a reason. We wanted to start out with teams that will get us right.”

Hovell will look to a trio of returning standouts to lead their squad into the waters of area play, beginning with senior Said Rujana.

“Said Rujana, he’s going to be a guy to keep an eye on,” Hovell said. “Not only is he our playmaker, he can score some goals.”

Rujana will be complimented on the offensive end of the field by the returning George Meyers.

“Leading goal scorer — George Meyers — he’s back,” Hovell said.

“So playing up top, he’s going to be a pretty good force to reckon with.”

Rounding out the veteran trio is returning all-star Ethan Neman.

“Our guy who made the all-star game, Ethan Neman, is a center back for us,” Hovell said. “I wouldn’t doubt that he

plays a few more positions throughout the year. He’s just a really dynamic player.”

Fortunately for Hovell, the rising talent is more than enough to keep the coach excited for the present — and future — of Opelika Soccer.

“There are so many guys I can keep naming,” Hovell said. “Lots of kids who have played together a long time and are eager to get going.”

The leader of the red and black believes that his roster is poised to turn heads in its current classification; in the same token, he wants them to remember the task at hand.

“We’re just going to have to step up,” Hovell said. “We can’t make or break our season just because we’re getting moved up. We have the players. It’s just: can we step up to the challenge?”

Regardless of the imminent reclassification or immediate results of See OHS SOCCER, page B3

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B2 Feb. 17, 2022

‘Transparency’ Issue with Lee County School Board?

BY WIL CREWS SPORTSCREWS@ OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM According to Lee County School Board Chief Financial Officer Ken Roberts, revenues in the school system are rising, but citizens are still wondering where that money (COVID funds in particular) is being spent.

At last week’s regularly scheduled board meeting, Roberts reported that, for the month of December (2021), the system has earned 26.2% of its projected to revenues compared to spending 24.4% of its projected expenditures. Additionally, the county is projected to grow its tax revenue by $2,046,190 in the fiscal year 2021-22, based on comparisons to data at this time in last year’s fiscal cycle.

After Roberts’ report, a community speaker

questioned the board regarding the availability of the county’s federal COVID-19 funds to the public.

“I have been trying to do some research, trying to find the COVID funds that is supposed to be readily available for the community and it’s not,” said Miss Jackson, one of three community speakers to take the podium at Tuesday night’s meeting.

Jackson cited a number of issues she believed the COVID money could be spent on, including neglected work orders and the need for building maintenance in many of the county’s schools.

“It’s not just about the teachers,” she said. “It’s also about the environment. When you have air filters that are way past replacements, roof leaks that have been there, you have a huge hole in Smiths Station high

school’s roof and mold everywhere … these things have got to be fixed.”

Jackson further emphasized the need for the COVID fund information to be readily available to the community through

the Lee County School Board website.

“I’ve got what COVID information I could find, but I had to search other than the Lee County schools [website],” she said. “The transparency of this school board is not

there.”

Jackson went on to question how often the school board officials visit the schools and if or when they engage with community concerning its desires for the system.

“We get tons of money for COVID relief. I’m not sure where our tax dollars have gone. (calls out someone for smirking).

Where is the community outreach? In the financial report there is supposed to be a separate COVID fund link on the website and there is not. This needs to be transparent, this needs to be available to the community."

The school board offered no comment once Jackson’s allotted time to speak was up.

OTHER BUSINESS: - The board heard the December financial report from Chief School Financial Officer Ken Roberts.

- The board heard a presentation from Dr. Jason Wright on the Career Tech Appreciation Month.

- The board approved minutes from the last meeting.

- The board approved field trips for the Smiths Station Track & Field team to take overnight field trips Altoona, Georiga, Fayetteville, Georgia and Gulf Shores, Alabama, for two meets and the AHSAA Track & Field Championships; a pre-K field trip to Columbus, Georgia; and three trips for the girls and boys soccer teams to Albertville, Alabama, and Columbus, Georgia, respectively.

- The board approved a revised and updated cheerleading constitution for the county.

- The board approved human resource recommendations.

Auburn University Honoring Contributions, Achievements of African Americans Through Array of Events During Black History Month CONTRIBUTED BY AUBURN UNIVERSITY

BY NEIL REID Auburn University and the Office of Inclusion and Diversity, or OID, are honoring the legacies, contributions and achievements of African Americans throughout Black History Month via an array of events designed to educate, create fellowship and call for continued progress.

Auburn organizations are hosting more than a dozen events, including ones organized by OID, the Black Student Union, Student Involvement, the Black Graduate and Professional Student Association, OID’s Cross-Cultural Center for Excellence and OID’s Women’s Initiatives and Gender Equity subunits. In addition, the National Pan-Hellenic Council, College of Nursing, Financial Management Association, National Association of Black Accountants, the International Cultural Center and Women in Sports are hosting events.

The collaborative efforts of the groups and

organizations represent a unified partnership among Auburn student, administration, faculty, professional, alumni and community entities to call attention to Black history and heritage this month.

“Black History Month is one of the many times during the year where we celebrate and honor the achievements, history and experiences of Black Americans who have been central in our nation’s history,” said Taffye Benson Clayton, associate provost and vice president for inclusion and diversity at Auburn University. “It is critical that we deepen our understanding of the Black experience and create space to celebrate the perseverance, brilliance, strength and beauty of a people that contributed and still contribute so meaningfully to the fabric of American culture.”

Black History Month is featured across the nation throughout February, its importance paramount to the quest to promote diversity, equity and inclusion, or DEI. “Black History Month remains important because it allows us to learn more about Black

Harold A. Franklin, who passed away on Sept. 9, 2021, integrated Auburn University in 1964. As Auburn recognizes Black History Month and honors the achievements of trailblazers like Franklin, student groups and other leaders are offering several events focused on diversity, equity and inclusion.

Americans’ lives, experiences and contributions to the U.S. and beyond,” said Austin McCoy, an assistant professor of history in Auburn’s College of Liberal Arts. “What else is important about this month, and Black History, generally, is that it provokes everyone to ask questions about conventional narratives of the U.S. that emphasize

notions of uninterrupted progress, for example, the notion that the U.S. is constantly striving toward a more perfect union.

While many Americans believe this, the study of Black history shows a more complicated picture emphasizes this country’s fits and starts and peaks and valleys when it comes to living up to civic ideals.”

Auburn has reaffirmed its commitment to DEI efforts in recent years through the naming of buildings in honor of African American graduates and securing the legacy of Harold A. Franklin, who integrated the university in 1964.

“We are so fortunate to be an institution with the collaborative spirit that the Auburn Family has,” Clayton said.

“Collectively, we have embraced diversity, equity and inclusion as core to advancing institutional strategic plan goals and our institutional mission.

The Office of Inclusion and Diversity has partnered with multiple departments and teams on campus toward creating a diverse, inclusive and equitable campus. These partnerships have built momentum and evolved systemic and policy-based efforts that maximize our university’s potential and create opportunities for students, faculty, staff and alumni to flourish and become leaders who change the world.

“We are continuously inspired by the commitment of faculty, staff, students and alumni alike in

this journey.”

Those strides are steps in an ongoing journey toward equity for the university and the Auburn Family.

“I think Auburn University is now largely in-step with most major research universities around the nation,” said Guy Emerson Mount, an assistant professor of history, who stressed there is “an admittedly low bar” for current national initiatives. “President [Jay] Gogue is truly a remarkable president and a genuinely caring human being who I know is deeply committed to this issue.

“Overall, universities need to think far beyond the ‘town and gown’ model and make transformative justice nationally and internationally central to their institutional missions. This is not an ‘add-on’ that universities should subsume. It requires a transformation of their very raison d’être.”

While progress has been made in recent years, the university and its constituents recognize the need for a continued commitment to equality See BLACK HISTORY, page B3

B3 Feb. 17, 2022

Auburn Basketball (Just After) Mid-season Superlatives

BY HARRISON TARR FOR THE OBSERVER Spring semester at Auburn University possesses a distinct atmosphere each year. As is customary, the weather cannot decide if it wants to be pleasantly warm or bitterly cold, downtown businesses shift their focus towards attracting visitors to the Plains during football’s offseason and excitement builds for the commencement of thousands of students.

This year, there is an added excitement that extends far beyond the realm of normality: the unprecedented success of the Auburn men’s basketball program.

For the first time in program history, Bruce Pearl’s team earned a No. 1 ranking in the AP poll and the Tigers have shown little sign of slowing down; in the midst of a remarkable season, the time has come for a remarkable set of awards, The Observer’s

SPORTS >> FROM B1 Campbell (38-2) placed first and scored 30.0 team points.

Champ. Round 1 Campbell received a bye.

Champ. Round 2 - Campbell won by fall (1:29) over Zach Crosthwait (Wetumpka, 25-10).

Quarterfinal - Campbell won by fall (1:07) over Bear Maxwell (Chelsea, 34-15).

Semifinal - Campbell won by fall (3:11) over Christian Griggs (Mcadory, 59-11).

1st Place Match Campbell won by decision (4-3) over Bryce Wanagat (Pelham, 34-6).

152 pounds Landon Willis’ (20-18) place is unknown and scored 3.0 team points.

Champ. Round 1 Willis won in tie breaker (TB-1, 10-5) over Brantley Woodall (Wetumpka, 11-8).

BLACK HISTORY >> FROM B2 for all.

“As a land-grant institution, Auburn has a responsibility to serve the people of Alabama, the country and the world and to create an inclusive campus where people can thrive,” Clayton said. “The administration and leaders from across colleges, schools, units, departments and our entire university are collaborating to support the Auburn Family and ensure that Auburn is an equitable and inclusive environment. This work involves a variety of educational engagements, policy updates, honoring trailblazing individuals through building namings and each college working on identified goals and strategies to advance inclusion and diversity.

“This spring, we encourage faculty, staff and students to share

midseason superlatives.

MIDSEASON MVP: WALKER KESSLER It’s difficult to comprehend that Auburn has the possible No. 1 overall pick in the upcoming NBA draft yet Kessler has been the most valuable player on the court to this point; the 7-foot-1 sophomore has simply been incredible. A transfer from the University of North Carolina, Kessler is averaging 11.6 points, 7.8 rebounds and 4.6 blocks per contest, effectively making an argument as the best rim defender in all of college hoops.

Despite finding himself in frequent foul trouble in the early season, Kessler has found a way to keep himself in games and force opponents to try to score outside of the paint.

6TH MAN OF THE YEAR: WENDELL GREEN JR. Green is yet another example of Bruce Pearl’s remarkable ability to work the transfer portal. After spending his freshman year running the point at Eastern Kentucky, the

5-foot-11 guard has been a remarkable addition to Auburn’s rotation.

Averaging 12.7 points, 4.8 assists and shooting 38.4 percent from the field, the fact that Green is technically Auburn’s “sixth man” is mind-boggling.

MOST UNDERAPPRECIATED: ZEP JASPER After speculation surrounded the capability of Auburn’s backcourt entering the 2021-22 campaign, this group has done nothing but silence doubters. Jasper has certainly had his hand in leading the platoon to national notoriety. Despite not posting flashy numbers in the scoring column, Jasper’s impact on a game is remarkable; there are few guards in the game who are better on-ball defenders and can keep opponents as off-balance as the College of Charleston transfer.

BIGGEST SURPRISE: AUBURN’S DEPTH In the world of college basketball, good teams have five players who are top-shelf when it

Champ. Round 2 - Owen Elledge (Russell County, 47-15) won by fall (0:38) over Willis.

Cons. Round 2 - Willis won by decision (6-4) over Ashton Clark (Benjamin Russell,12-27).

Cons. Round 3 Harrison Brakefield (Chelsea, 31-17) won by decision (4-1) over Willis.

195 Pounds Champion - Jack Pritchard (39-4) placed first and scored 27.0 team points.

Champ. Round 1 Pritchard received a bye.

Champ. Round 2 Pritchard won by major decision (12-4) over Elijah Holloway (Brookwood, 18-10).

Quarterfinal - Pritchard won by fall (2:51) over Jacob Clark (Beauregard HS, 42-12).

Semifinal - Pritchard won by decision (5-3) over Christian Preston (Wetumpka, 25-8).

1st Place Match Pritchard won by decision

(9-4) over Zander Terry (Pelham, 44-11).

220 pounds Kyle Epperson (13-11) placed eighth and scored 8.0 team points.

Champ. Round 1 Epperson received a bye.

Champ. Round 2 - Landon Harville (Brookwood, 17-7) won by decision (6-0) over Epperson.

Cons. Round 2 Epperson won by fall (0:41) over Zion Jackson (Hueytown, 3-14).

Cons. Round 3 Epperson won by fall (4:17) over Mykah Wilson (Brewbaker Tech, 6-8).

Cons. Round 4 Epperson won by decision (7-1) over Caiden Arnold (Robertsdale, 19-10).

Cons. Round 5 - William Courtenay (Mountain Brook, 31-10) won in sudden victory (SV-1, 4-2) over Epperson.

7th Place Match - Owen Campbell (Helena, 31-9) won by fall (4:46) over Epperson.

their feedback in our 2022 Campus Climate survey, participate in our programming opportunities and get involved in our many on-campus opportunities. Please remain connected to these and many other updates through the Auburn University Diversity, Equity and Inclusion landing page.”

That DEI landing page includes a timeline chronicling the legacy of Auburn’s trailblazers, starting with Franklin’s iconic first steps on campus nearly 60 years ago.

That journey continues this month as the Auburn Family comes together to pay tribute to the contributions of African Americans to the university and the country.

“It will be important for the members of the university community to listen to Black students, both undergraduate and graduate, and to continue to address their concerns,”

McCoy said. “Black people like scholar W.E.B. DuBois, grassroots organizers like Ella Baker and Fannie Lou Hamer, and even Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. have argued for the importance of ensuring social and economic justice at home and enabling it abroad, independent of U.S. influence, as a prerequisite to fulfilling democratic ideals. We must challenge ourselves to take their visions more seriously. Their examples show we must organize our way to a better future.”

Creating an inclusive and welcoming environment for all, both on campus and in the community, remains a steadfast goal.

“Good things can happen when ordinary people of goodwill come together on a local level to imagine new worlds and commit to building those worlds together,” Mount said. “Another world is possible.”

comes to talent. Great teams have a roster full of high-caliber athletes and see little dropoff when the bench is on the floor. Bruce Pearl’s roster is certainly the latter. Ahead of the 2021-22, Auburn was widely expected to be a talented team who could win a lot of games due to starting talent; nobody expected the squad to be this deep. With Green, Jaylin Williams, Devan Cambridge, Dylan Cardwell and Lior Berman, it’s not far-fetched to declare the Tigers one of the deepest teams in the country.

BIGGEST HYPE MAN: DYLAN CARDWELL There are players who make fans fall in love with them due to their on-court abilities, players who earn endearment through embedding themselves within the schools culture and then there’s Dylan Cardwell.

After playing a limited role as a freshman, Cardwell has not only taken strides to improve BASKETBALL The OHS Lady Bulldog Basketball team (14-13) finished second in the area tournament last week after losing to Eufaula in double overtime, 74-68.

Haley Sanders continued to lead the girls offensively, scoring 31 points.

Ashanti Thomas and Erica Mathews added 13 points apiece.

The loss to Eufaula sent the Lady Bulldogs to Park Crossing in a Sub-Regional game Monday night.

PCHS ended Opelika's season with a 75-60 win.

Sanders played her last game as a Lady Bulldog, scoring 20 points.

Mathews added 15 points in the loss.

Coach Smalley's team finished 14-14 in his first year as head coach.

The varsity Bulldog boys’ basketball team lost to Valley, 59-51, in the first round of the Area Tournament last week.

The loss to the Rams ends the season for the (6-16)

his game but has become an icon across all Auburn sporting events. The 6-foot-10 center can be found blowing kisses to the jungle after an emphatic dunk, screaming for his teammates from the stationary bike on the sideline or with his shirt off at literally any Auburn game for other sports.

CRAZIEST INDIVIDUAL: KD JOHNSON Bruce Pearl once described KD Johnson as “bat crazy” and the entire Auburn fan base took it and ran. Between screaming at the student section, slapping the ball remarkably loud and the iconic sticking out of his tongue, Johnson’s on-court antics certainly bolster his claim as an on-court mad-man; the sophomore UGA transfer’s physical performance seals the deal. Averaging 13 points and 2.1 steals per contest, Johnson is a menace when he gets going downhill and is liable to hit a contested three at any given time.

Bulldogs.

SOCCER Opelika’s girls soccer team opened the season with a 10-0 thumping of Stanhope Elmore in Millbrook last week.

The Lady Bulldogs scored early and often; Morgan Watts scored the first goal, Amiya Brown scored a hat trick (three goals) and Scarlet Posada and Anna Garcia scored two goals apiece.

Ashley Hilyer and Fatima Santamaria each scored one goal; Brown, Hilyer, Watts and Garcia recorded an assist.

OHS SPORTS SCHEDULE WEEK OF Feb. 19 THROUGH FEB. 24 Feb. 19 - OHS Baseball vs Stanhope Elmore at Bulldog Park at 11 a.m. and Pike Road at 4 p.m.

(Pike Road and SHEHS will play at 1 p.m.).

Feb. 22 -OHS Girls Tennis at Valley 3:30 p.m.

- OHS Junior Varsity

OHS SOCCER >> FROM B1 the season, Hovell is excited to have members of the Opelika community in the stands and along for the ride.

“The fans are what help the players play,” Hovell said. “The fan support and having a crowd at the games obviously energizes the players. They get enough of me, they need those other voices out there.”

According to Hovell, continued support from the community has been a privilege for him and has served to the soccer program’s benefit.

“I’m just thankful to be here at Opelika,” Hovell said. “All these years that I’ve been here, soccer is growing.”

Opelika returns to action on Thursday, Feb. 17 when the Dawgs travel to Alexander City to take on the Wildcats of Benjamin Russell high school in their final match before region play. Kickoff between the Dawgs and the Cats is set for 7 p.m. CST.

Baseball at Wetumpka 4:30 p.m.

- OHS Junior Varsity Softball at Eufaula at 4:30 p.m. / Varsity Softball at Eufaula 5:30 p.m.

- OHS Varsity Girls Soccer at Valley 5:30 p.m. / Boys Soccer at Valley 7:30 p.m.

- OHS Varsity Baseball at Wetumpka at 6:30 p.m.

Feb. 24 - OHS Girls and Boys Tennis at Lagoon Park, hosted by Enterprise at 4 p.m.

- OHS Baseball: JV at 4:30 p.m. and Varsity at 6:30 p.m. at Smiths Station - OHS Boys Varsity Soccer vs Central at W James Samford Soccer Complex at Sportsplex.

D. Mark Mitchell is the sports director at iHeartMedia, host of “On the Mark” Fox Sports the Game 910-1310, co-chair of the Auburn-Opelika Sports Council, chairman of the Super 7 and Dixie Boys Baseball state director.

SU TECHNICAL DIVISION

HOUSE OPEN THURSDAY, FEB. 17 4:30-7:00PM |

Join us in the Center for Integrated Manufacturing to explore program offerings, get scholarship information and learn about FAME - our newest work-based learning program.

Our programs prepare students for high-wage, high-demand technical careers in just 5 semesters.

AVAILABLE PROGRAMS: • Machine Shop Technology • Automotive Technology • Air Conditioning & Refrigeration • Mechatronics • Additive Machine Repair • Engineering & Design • Plastics Engineering Technology • Welding

FAME Students earn a wage while attending college and gain priceless work experience with a sponsoring company.

Employers and instructors will be available to provide more info.

• Cosmetology The Center for Integrated Manufacturing is located at 301 Lake Condy Road in Opelika. Look for the 2-story building with roll up doors. For more information call 334-745-6437 ext. 5490.

Technical Division

suscc.edu

B4 Feb. 17, 2022

Frostbite Open Brings Disc Golfers to Opelika

PHOTOS BY ROBERT NOLES / THE OBSERVER

The annual Frostbite Open was held at the Opelika SportsPlex on Feb. 12 and 13. The pro-am event brought a total of 84 men and women out to compete in single competitions across a variety of skill level groups. The winner of the "Open" portion of the competition, Jacob Chesser, took home a grand prize total of $648, and the top-11 finishers earned a payout.

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B5 Feb. 17, 2022

Opelika Holds Mother-Son Dance

PHOTOS BY ROBERT NOLES / THE OBSERVER

The city of Opelika held its Mother-Son Blue Jean Ball last weekend at Covington Rec Center from 6 to 8 p.m. Participants received a meal, corsage (for the moms) and boutonniere (for the sons), and participated in a number of entertaining activites.

GLENWOOD >> FROM B1 were convinced of Tuscaloosa Academy’s potential in part because of the performance from the Knights’ junior guard, Alex Brownlee.

“They came to our border wars and I got to see [Brownlee] in person, and Jasmyn did too,” Purdue said.

“Jasmyn said ‘hey coach, she’s pretty good, she can play. I’m really hoping that we get to play them in the state tournament. I want to see how good she is and I want her to see how good I am.’ So, that’s what ended up happening yesterday and neither one disappointed.”

Monday night at the Cramton Bowl Multiplex in Montgomery, Glenwood defeated Tuscaloosa Academy, 58-56, to

claim back-to-back AISA Class AAA State Championships.

“The goal at the start of the season is to try to win it all and somehow we miraculously pulled it out,” Purdue said.

“There was no quit in us yesterday. There was no quit in us all year. I was very impressed with the way we fought, the way we didn’t crumble when they took the lead, and just made it happen.”

Burts and Brownlee battled from the first whistle, making an impact in different ways but leading their teams throughout the heavily contested game. “[Brownlee] shot the ball well from the outside and had some good takes to the goal and got fouled and made her free throws,” Purdue said as he commended the Tuscaloosa Academy star. “Jasmyn didn’t hit

any outside shots but did what Jasmyn does — take you off the dribble and create — and she made some really good moves and shots. It was a very good matchup for those two just for their team’s sakes. They were both leading the whole game.”

Despite Glenwood trailing by as many as 10, and behind as many as eight in the fourth quarter, Burts scored a bulk of her 26 total points in the second half to help the Gators escape with the narrow win.

Burts repeatedly torched Tuscaloosa Academy by driving to her right, getting to the free throw line and sinking her attempts.

Her efforts were a big part of why Glenwood flipped the script and held a seven-point lead with less than two

minutes remaining in the contest.

With just seven seconds to go, however, Glenwood was inbounding the ball up two. Brownlee — who led the Knights with 25 points — picked off the inbounds pass, got fouled and headed to free throw line with a chance to tie the game if she knocked down the pair of shots.

“She had not missed a free throw all day,” Purdue said.

After sinking the first free throw, the second shot from Brownlee surprisingly rimmed out.

Glenwood grabbed the rebound and got the ball to Burts before getting fouled with just one second remaining.

“You’re watching the clock all time thinking, can that thing move fast enough?” Purdue said.

The senior leader

stepped up to the line and made the first attempt, but missed the second. As Brownlee collected the rebound for Tuscaloosa Academy, she launched a full-court heave, but the shot fell short. The Gators were champions once again, and back-toback champions for the first time since 2014-15.

“I’m looking at my assistant coach and he’s looking at me and I’m like ‘did we just pull this off?’” Purdue said.

“I was told by the powers that be, the AISA guys, the people that run the tournament and all that, that this was by far the best state championship game they had seen. It was a fun game to be a part of for sure.”

After the game Purdue was happiest to send his two seniors, Burts and shooting guard Katelyn

Blackshear, out with a win.

“For Jasmyn to come and love the game of basketball the way she does — and to win is just a plus — but for her to be successful, that was the main thing,” he said. “She came in as a leader, she leaves as a leader and she’s the glue that holds it all together.

And then for Katelyn, she was a sixth grade manager for the girls’ basketball team and now she is leaving with two championship rings and got to participate and be a big part of this team this year as a sixth man is just wonderful. I can’t say enough about those two.”

Purdue and the Gators will likely never forget Valentine’s Day 2022; it was the night all their hard work paid off. Now they walk the halls as champions once again.

B6 Feb. 17, 2022

FORWARD

YOUR PAST DOES NOT DEFINE YOU

PHOTOS BY CANDANCE ALLDAY / FOR THE OBSERVER

Auburn High School’s Afro-Cultural Education club, also known as ACE, presented its 4th Annual Black History Program on Sunday, Feb. 13 at 3 p.m. The theme for the program was FORWARD: your past does not define you. ACE’s mission is to educate students about Black History and Afro Culture through creative projects. It is dedicated to promoting diversity, openness, representation and opportunity for everyone. ACE exposes students to the rich heritage of African culture and supports them in their own academic and personal growth as strong citizens thriving in the global world. ACE encourages positive and healthy lifestyles by emphasizing how the choices we make will affect history and our future generations.

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B7 Feb. 17, 2022

SUSCC Foundation Receives Gift From Goodwill CONTRIBUTED BY SOUTHERN UNION

The Southern Union State Community College (SUSCC) Foundation was among seven two-year colleges within Goodwill Southern Rivers territory to receive funds for Gap Grants to ensure the successful completion of associate degrees.

SUSCC received $140,000 to be used for scholarship money to help make up the difference between an individual’s resources for obtaining an education and the cost of tuition.

Goodwill President and CEO, Jack Warden stated “This initiative is designed to bridge the gap between existing scholarships and grants and the actual cost of tuition. There are several grants and scholarships out there, but in some instances, they fall short of the actual cost of the program. Oftentimes

SUSCC Public Relations Director, Shondae Brown and SUSCC President Todd Shackett receive a check from Goodwill President and CEO, Jack Warden, and Goodwill Vice-President of Mission Services, Tricia Llewellyn-Konan to fund Gap Grants for SU students. this is just a few hundred dollars, but that can be a huge barrier to someone trying to get an education

to start their career.”

The introduction of the Goodwill gap grants is one of the first initiatives

implemented as a result of a $10 million donation Goodwill received from McKenzie Scott.

Goodwill has long been dedicated to closing the skills gap and eliminating barriers that often stand

in the way of securing meaningful employment.

“We could not be more honored to receive this gift. Southern Union’s mission of providing a well-trained workforce is in line with Goodwill’s job readiness goals. We are happy to work together to provide citizens of our area this support,” said SUSCC President Todd Shackett.

The Southern Union Foundation is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization that was established to support and foster the educational and service programs and activities of SUSCC. The Foundation increases educational access for students through financial support and enables the college to initiate innovative projects to enhance the quality of education.

For more information on this scholarship opportunity, please contact Shondae Brown at sbrown@suscc.edu.

Recent Auburn Alumnus Parks Establishing Scholarship to Benefit Bass Fishing Team Supply chain management graduate won $1 million team tournament in 2021 CONTRIBUTED

BY AUBURN UNIVERSITY

BY NEIL REID

Auburn University graduate Logan Parks is using part of his record-setting bass fishing winnings from last year to attract anglers to his alma mater via a newly created scholarship.

Parks, a member of the Auburn bass fishing team who graduated in December with a degree in supply chain management, has created the Logan Parks Bass Fishing Endowed Scholarship for accomplished anglers who are interested in attending Auburn. In November, Parks teamed with Tucker Smith to win the $1 million first-place prize at the Bass Pro Shops US Open National Bass Fishing Amateur Team Championships, the biggest payout in bass fishing history.

The dynamic duo split the seven-figure prize and each went home with 2022 Toyota Tundra CrewMax trucks and Nitro Z21 bass boats for their exploits. Now, Parks

is looking to pay it forward to future Tigers.

“I wanted to create a scholarship that offered someone an opportunity to come and fish at what I consider the best school in the country,” Parks, who has embarked on a professional fishing career this year, said. “I’ve really enjoyed my time at Auburn, and I wanted to create an opportunity for someone else like me to come here in the future. I’m hoping this will lead to bigger and better things.

“Hopefully Auburn will help this scholarship grow as much as possible, and eventually maybe one day other SEC schools will see the value in it and will make the same type of scholarships available at their schools. The more people hear about it and the more we get the word out about it, the better.”

Parks’ $26,000 donation will help fund the bass fishing team’s future endeavors, including student recruitment, team equipment and tournament entry fees. The scholarship will help establish a strong recruiting

foundation for the team, which won national collegiate team of the year honors last year and will have a fundraising effort that is part of the university’s annual Tiger Giving Day on Feb. 23.

“Some of our top competition offers scholarships for bass fishing for high school anglers, and we’re really getting beat in the recruiting game,” Parks said. “It’s hard for

us to convince people to come to Auburn to fish when they have scholarship offers at other places.

There are some Division I scholarships, but very few of them, and there are no scholarships at SEC schools.

“We just got ranked No. 1 in the country, and a lot of people are looking at us, so the more we can offer them in scholarships is great.”

Parks, who with Smith was named the Carhartt Bassmaster College Series Team of the Year, relished the chance to provide a boost to Auburn’s bass fishing team through the scholarship since his experience with the team was so instrumental in his life.

“The Auburn fishing team completely changed the trajectory of my life,” Parks said. “I came to Auburn with the hopes of one day pursuing a professional career but didn’t really know what that looked like. Through my time at Auburn, I’ve made some really fantastic business relationships with people who are sponsors of mine now, have gotten the opportunity to make a name for myself in the fishing world and met some of my best friends through the process.

“All of the guys on the team are like my brothers, and we’re a very tightknit group. I’m really thankful to have been a part of it.”

Anyone interested in donating to the Logan Parks Bass Fishing

Endowed Scholarship may do so via this link:www.alumniq.auburn.edu/ giving/to/loganparks Auburn University is a nationally ranked land grant institution recognized for its commitment to world-class scholarship, interdisciplinary research with an elite, top-tier Carnegie R1 classification, life-changing outreach with Carnegie’s Community Engagement designation and an undergraduate education experience second to none. Auburn is home to more than 30,000 students, and its faculty and research partners collaborate to develop and deliver meaningful scholarship, science and technology-based advancements that meet pressing regional, national and global needs.

Auburn’s commitment to active student engagement, professional success and public/private partnership drives a growing reputation for outreach and extension that delivers broad economic, health and societal impact.

Body Quest Still a Hit for SNAP-Ed CONTRIBUTED BY ALABAMA COOPERATIVE EXTENSION SYSTEM (ACES)

BY DUSTIN DUNCAN

Body Quest warriors continued the fight against childhood obesity in third-grade classrooms throughout Alabama in 2021.

The staff at Alabama Extension at Auburn University Supplemental Nutrition Assistance ProgramEducation (SNAP-Ed)

and SNAP-Ed educators throughout the state took to the front lines of the battle to provide nutrition education to more than 4,000 students.

In total, SNAP-Ed educators in Alabama reached 4,191 third graders in 41 counties, 89 schools and 242 virtual, in-person or hybrid classes. Body Quest resulted in significant differences in healthy nutrition

behaviors, physical activity participation, nutrition knowledge and preference for healthy foods, according to pre- and post-assessment data.

BODY QUEST Educators, assisted by six Body Quest Warriors — a group of animated characters designed by Alabama SNAP-Ed at Auburn University — are leading the charge to teach students about the

power of making good food choices. The warriors engage students through a SNAP-Ed curriculum called Body Quest. The curriculum is an innovative childhood obesity prevention initiative that empowers third graders and their parents to makehealthier choices.

This statewide effort employs a combination of theory-driven classroom instruction, technology and

evidence-based approaches to prevent and reduce childhood obesity. The Warriors challenge elementary youth to develop healthy behaviors through educational games played on Apple iPad apps.

AVAILABLE FOR ALL Due to the lingering COVID-19 pandemic, AU SNAP-Ed implemented a nine-week curriculum offered remotely by educators. This curriculum

specifically targeted students whose in-person learning was disrupted by closures.

The virtual Body Quest program consisted of student education kits, worksheets, virtual assessments and prerecorded lesson videos.

The videos introduced lesson concepts to students in an interactive, visual format. SNAPEd educators followed the video by joining See SNAP, page B8

B8 Feb. 17, 2022

Laugh, Live, Count The Birds

ebruary holds many fun and loving holidays for young children and seniors alike. This past week we have been celebrating "Love Makes The World Go Round But Laughter Keeps Us From Getting Dizzy Week." he official dates are Feb. 8 through 14 but we can celebrate laughing at any time.

Laughing is definitely a connection between the young and old.

For seniors, it seems like yesterday we were wide-eyed and happy as we looked at 1964’s “Mary Poppins’” movie character Uncle Albert, floating to the top of the ceiling, singing, “I Love to Laugh”. Laughing is

definitely “A Spoonful of Sugar” in the routine of our senior days.

Laughing is contagious among the young and old, and across culture lines.

Laughter and a sense humor produce many health benefits for seniors and children. In physical benefits, a good hearty laugh relaxes the whole body by releasing physical tension and stress. In senior “Sit and Chat” group times, when sharing jokes and funny times in our lives, it is noticed that the complaints of pain are reduced. There is an overall sense of wellbeing.

With children, laughter diffuses stress. Laughter for children plays such a vital role in growth and development.

Medical research has shown that laughter protects the heart by improving the function of blood vessels and strengthening the blood flow. Laughing is good cardiovascular exercise.

Laughing helps the heart like brisk walking, light running or jogging would. Gentle Reminder that February is recognized as American Heart Month, where we focus on cardiovascular health.

What a joyful benefit for seniors, as well as, young children.

The ability to laugh promotes a positive outlook on life. Joy, zest to live, relieving anxiety and fear and mood improvement are the mental health benefits of laughter. With laughter and a good sense of humor, children develop good self esteem and social skills in relating to other people. Children seem to learn the positive healing influence of laughter from their friends when they are sad, hurting or have had a misunderstanding with each other. Through the past two years with the pandemic, laughter has been essential to bringing joy in their young lives and protecting them from sadness, stress, anxiety and depression. Children who are happy and laugh feel comfortable in expressing ideas and creativity.

SNAP >>

SNAP-Ed program coordinator. "Our team worked hard to create engaging videos for students to watch before their live virtual lessons with the local SNAP-Ed educator.

The videos and virtual lessons were a hit with classroom teachers and students."

MAKING CHANGES SNAP-Ed educators were active in more than just the

classroom to provide nutrition education.

Educators established strong relationships with Body Quest schools to facilitate 117 positive changes.

This created healthier school environments for more than 13,800 students. To qualify as a Body Quest school, the institution must be composed of at least 50% of students receiving free or

“There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.” Ecclesiastes 3:1.

F

T

FROM B7 classrooms virtually and leading students through hands-on activities to complete each lesson.

“Body Quest is a lively, interactive classroom experience for kids that we did not want to lose with virtual learning," said Katie Funderburk,

Genuine laughter is infectious and a key ingredient in promoting many social benefits. Relationships are strengthened and group bonding is promoted in senior groups by laughter. Conflicts are reduced by sharing a good laugh.

As a Baby Boomer myself, I look to the greater generation and learn to laugh. How do humor and growing old go hand in hand? So many of our favorite and popular jokes by comedians, programs, books and by each other are on the process of aging. All of us age; it is truly nothing we have to work for, it just happens.

Joking and “kidding” over age-related changes can ease a lot of anxiety because we are growing old together. This is so true in senior groups when clean, wholesome jokes are shared. Seniors so many times make fun of themselves with other seniors as we walk down the lane of aging together. Too, laughter and optimism improve resiliency in the way we cope with everyday life and its challenges.

Laughter and humor are also being shown to be natural, powerful medicines for chronic, degenerative conditions like dementia, Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. As an activity volunteer and coordinator with seniors, I reduced priced meals through the National School Lunch Program.

Some of those changes to Body Quest schools included: • Establishment of new food distribution sites, such as food pantries • Increased availability of fresh, local produce in school cafeterias • Established or sustained school gardens • Improved opportunities for physical activity, such as hosting bike rodeos • Provided tastings and signage throughout the school encouraging students to make healthy choices.

MORE INFORMATION For more information about Body Quest or AU SNAP-Ed, visit LiveWellAlabama. com, or find Live Well Alabama on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter or Pinterest.

have seen the benefits of laughter first hand.

In providing group times in a retirement home to promote laughing and sense of humor, I check out DVDs from different decades from our local library. Too, our local newspapers in certain editorials and columns promote conversation starters. Senior adults love to get their newspapers. The same kind of resources can be gathered to outreach to individual elderly people who are being cared for by a family or caregiver in their home. Too, on the computer, certaisn websites provide generational jokes from certain eras that can be downloaded and printed.

And last but not least, seniors love to share funny memories of their families, friends and themselves. Let’s take it from our senior friends and “take time to laugh.”

Laughter is truly contagious between the young and old.

This coming Friday, Feb. 18, and Monday, Feb. 21 is the annual Greater Backyard Bird Count, now in its 25th year of celebrating. This is such a popular community science event that can be done from observing birds from inside your home as well as outside. Many senior facilities hang up bird feeders right outside

residents’ windows so seniors can count and observer different birds flying in to feed. My young son who lived in Mobile, Alabama, did this intergenerational event with his grandfather, who lived in Opelika, each year. They compared and talked about the different birds they counted in central Alabama and south Alabama. Visit the GBBC (Greater Backyard Bird Count) site. This is a free, exciting, fun event, so you just register and sign in to engage and broaden your understanding of different birds and their habits. Instructions are very clear on how to get started. Counting birds can be done as little in 15 minutes or longer. It can be done by beginning bird watchers, as well as seasoned bird watchers.

The checklists that are submitted during the Greater Backyard Bird Count are used in research of different birds and their life habits. With most schools being out on the Presidents’ Day Holiday, Monday, Feb. 21, this will be such a good family event to observe, learn, count and celebrate birds over this four-day event.

Let’s go grab the binoculars and “Happy Bird Watching!”

Classroom Observer, Beth Pinyerd

PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

L ee County & A labama Politics

B9

Nov. 24, 2021

Thursday, Feb. 17, 2022

Inside the Statehouse

F

STEVE FLOWERS

See FLOWERS, page B10

Opelika Mayor Gary Fuller and the city council issued a proclamation of appreciation during Tuesday night’s city council meeting, honoring Lucy Kirk, the city’s first Black female officer for the Opelika Police Department. Kirk joined the force in 1975 as a parking control officer in downtown Opelika. She became a full-fledged traffic officer in 1979 upon her graduation from Southwest Alabama Training Academy in Bay Minette, Alabama.

According to the proclamation read by Fuller, Kirk attended multiple schools through her years at the OPD where she received training in a

Kirk with her proclammation and challenge coins from OPD.

variety of areas including pursuit driving, Doppler radar operation, hazardous material handling, emergency medical technician skills, interviews, interrogations and more.

She also completed training at the Institute of Police Technology and Management at University of North Florida in September 1987 and was

promoted to Corporal in 1988 and Sergeant 1989.

Kirk was the first female to be awarded the Veterans of Foreign Wars and Ladies Auxiliary S404 certificate of appreciation and was one of the first hostage negotiators in the area. She retired from the OPD in 1994 after serving the See OPELIKA, page B11

New Lee County Commissioner Takes Seat PHOTO BY HANNAH LESTER / THE OBSERVER

ormer President Donald Trump was a very-popular president with Alabama Republican voters. Trump was a proven conservative president. He walked the walk. He did not just talk the talk. He has a legacy as president, especially in changing the philosophical tilt of the U.S. Supreme Court. He remains popular with GOP primary voters in the Heart of Dixie.

Trump continues to stay in the spotlight. He almost feels compelled to endorse candidates for senate and governor in very conservative, southern and Midwest Republican states like Alabama where he still remains popular.

Trump has indeed endorsed Congressman Mo Brooks in his quest to fill the seat of retiring U.S. Senator Richard Shelby. Brooks is basing his entire campaign on Trump’s endorsement.

Gubernatorial candidate, Lindy Blanchard, who has been a stalwart Trump supporter is hoping for Trump’s blessing in her quest to unseat Governor Kay Ivey. Trump's endorsement in this race would indeed be important in Blanchard’s mission.

In the senate race, polling by two reputable and independent polling firms indicates that Mo Brooks and Katie Britt are in a dead heat contest each with about 25% with Mike Durant at 18%. Their numbers are not rock solid. Britt has more favorable numbers than Brooks on likeability. The poll indicates that if Trump continues to be for Brooks, it will help him immensely. If Trump becomes disenchanted with Brooks, he can kiss this race goodbye.

Brook’s campaign would simply vanish and sail away.

Therefore, the prevailing question is what is the significance of Trump’s endorsement in the senate race and also if Trump endorses the governor’s race?

My observation of Alabama politics over the last 60 years is that Alabamians more than any other state have a pronounced proclivity of not voting for a candidate that someone endorses, they will actually vote against them for that reason.

Alabamians are independent and like to make their own choices for individual candidates. It has happened over and over again in my lifetime as though they are saying to a governor, in this case a former president, we elected you to your office and you ought to be thankful for that and not be presumptuous or try to stick your nose where it doesn’t belong. Stick to your own knitting.

George Wallace in his heyday, when he was very popular, more popular than Trump in Alabama, would endorse candidates and they would universally, invariably lose even if they were favored. It was as though his endorsement was the kiss of death. He gave up and quit endorsing.

Trump has already had a dose of this Alabama anti-endorsing elixir. He made two endorsements in the 2017 special senate elections.

Trump endorsed Luther Strange, and he lost. Trump then endorsed Roy Moore and he lost.

Other southern states have illustrated this anti-endorsing history. During the Franklin Delano Roosevelt presidency, which lasted four terms throughout the Great Depression and New Deal, FDR was beloved and revered throughout the South. He was especially loved in Georgia, where he would spend a good amount of time at his home in Warm Springs.

FDR had become like a king. He was immensely popular. However, he was having problems with the conservative establishment-oriented aging U.S. Supreme Court.

Roosevelt responded with a bold, audacious move to pack the court with six new members whom he could select and move the Supreme Court from 9 to 15 justices. FDR

BY MICHELLE KEY PUBLISHER

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

Significance of Trump Endorsements in Alabama Races

Honoring Lucy Kirk

BY HANNAH LESTER HLESTER@ OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM

The Lee County Commission welcomed Ross Morris Monday night as the new District 2 commissioner.

Morris was appointed to the District 2 seat after it was vacated by

NOW OPEN

Sarah Brown in October 2021. Brown filled the seat left after District 2 Commissioner Johnny Lawrence passed away from COVID-19 in August 2020.

Lawrence was the last commissioner elected to the District 2 seat, while both Brown and Morris were appointed by Gov.

Kay Ivey.

“I also want to thank Sarah Brown who served District 2 very admirably with both passion and conviction,” Morris said. “I hope I can do the same. There’s still another person in District 2 I really See COMMISSION. page B12

Indoor shooting range is open to the public

2195 FIRST AVENUE • OPELIKA

B10 Feb. 17, 2022

Recalling My Heart Surgery and Humorist Lewis Grizzard

I

GREG MARKLEY

n 2008, longtime New York Congressman Charles Rangel published a book titled “And I Haven’t Had a Bad Day Since: From the Streets of Harlem to the Halls of Congress.” He writes that after the bloody Battle of Kunu-ri in Korea in 1950 as a 20-year-old staff sergeant he has not had a day as bad — his team faced the Chinese Army on all sides. He earned a Purple Heart and a Bronze Star.

A year ago, on Feb. 15, 2021, I had openheart surgery, a triple bypass. So today I wish to recount that hospital stay and the weeks of recovery

that followed. Also, I write a little about a famous columnist who faced a heart valve problem with humor and determination: Southern writer Lewis Grizzard.

Grizzard grew up a 56 minute drive from Opelika, in Moreland, Georgia.

He was a sportswriter but evolved into a humor columnist, the most famous of the 1980s and 1990s in the South. His books had titles like “If Love Were Oil, I’d be About a Quart Low,” “Elvis is Dead and I Don’t Feel So Good Myself,” and “They Tore Out My Heart and Stomped that Sucker Flat.” That last book shows the struggles of people with major heart problems and how humor can dial down the fear.

I had been seeing an Opelika cardiologist for years but did not have any stents or balloons put in except four over a period of five years (2005-10).

A chart in December 2020 showed a lot

of plaque and it was obvious I needed heart surgery soon. I was angry at myself, having been an avid runner until 1996 and a diligent 3-mile a day walker for the past 20-plus years.

But it was eating too much of the wrong things — pizza, fried items, fast food, etc.

— that gave me a heart nearly inundated with junk the size of a Buick. At a local restaurant I had the early signs of an impending heart attack — chest pains, dizziness, slow breathing and a headache. So I went to the East Alabama Health emergency room and was admitted.

Not long after, I had a heart attack but fortunately at the best place to have one — in a hospital. I remember a heart surgeon pounding on my chest, but I couldn’t feel much else. During the surgery a day or two later, the doctors graciously sent messages to my wife Angel noting how I was doing.

Gov. Ivey Supports HIRE VETS Medallion Program CONTRIBUTED BY THE OFFICE OF THE GOVERNMOR

Gov. Kay Ivey and Alabama Department of Labor Secretary Fitzgerald Washington are encouraging Alabama employers to hire veterans by applying to and participating in the Hire Vets Medallion Award Program, an official program of the U.S. Department of Labor.

The application period runs from now through April 30, 2022.

“Alabama will always proudly support our military men and women, and our veterans who have served,” Ivey said. “Our veterans will, no doubt, be a major asset to Alabama businesses. I remain committed to assisting and lifting up our veterans in any way I can.”

These awards are

FLOWERS

>>

FROM B9 wanted to control the Supreme Court. A good many U.S. Senators, who had been loyal to Roosevelt’s New Deal agenda could not go along with this brazen power play.

Georgia’s venerable Walter George was one of those who opposed the FDR Court packing plan.

Senator George was running for reelection

the only federal-level veterans’ employment awards that recognize a company or organization’s commitment to veteran hiring, retention and professional development. In 2021, 37 Alabama companies received the HIRE Vets Medallion Award, and 849 employers were recognized nationally.

Since the program’s inception, nearly 70 Alabama businesses have received this honor.

“This program provides an opportunity for employers to be honored for going the extra mile in hiring and retaining veterans. I encourage vet-friendly businesses to put their name forward for consideration.

This program is advantageous to both employers and veteran employees alike,” Washington said.

The HIRE Vets Medallion Award is based on several criteria, ranging from veteran hiring and retention to providing veteran-specific resources, leadership programming, dedicated human resources and compensation and tuition assistance programs — with requirements varying for large, medium and small employers. There is no application fee.

To learn more, create an account or update an existing account for the HIRE Vets Medallion Award Program, go to HireVets.gov or visit one of the 55 Alabama Career Centers in the state for assistance.

For more information on the program, contact Donal Cieutat, State Veterans Coordinator: Donal.

Cieutat@alcc.alabama.gov.

and there was a tremendous ceremonial event of a water dam that George had secured for Georgia. The ceremony was less than a month before the election.

FDR came to the event and lambasted Walter George and openly asked Georgians to vote against him for reelection. When it came time for George to speak, he calmly and gentlemanly went to the podium and said in a dignified voice, “Mr. President, we Georgians

appreciate you, we love you and admire you, but Mr. President, Georgians will elect their U.S. Senator.”

George was reelected overwhelmingly a few weeks later.

See you next week.

Steve Flowers is Alabama’s leading political columnist. His weekly column appears in over 60 Alabama newspapers. He served 16 years in the state legislature. Steve may be reached at www. steveflowers.us.

Things went well, but a doctor did say near the finish that “We’re not out of the woods yet!”

Since everything else had proceeded routinely, my wife Angel was eager to get the four-hour operation done. Over the days of recovery at the hospital, my wife could only see me one hour in the morning and one hour at night, due to COVID-19 precautions. But we certainly understood the safety value of that.

During the recuperation period at home, I did not want to be like some men — wanting to “jump the clock” and engage fully in life without their hearts getting the needed six-toeight-week rest period. There is a strict number of pounds that recovering heart patients must not exceed when carrying a parcel or item. Once or twice, in the latter weeks of recovery, I nearly forgot what NOT to do.

It all worked out in

the end. I was impatient with the light walking, especially where it says “Day such and such — walk one-half mile.” To me walking just a half mile or a mile is to exercise what miniature golf is to professional golf. My weight has increased only 3-to4-pounds in the first year after my bypass.

“If you want something sweet, order the pound cake,” wrote Lewis Grizzard.

“Anybody who puts sugar in the corn bread is a heathen who doesn’t love the Lord, not to mention Southeastern Conference football.”

He died in 1994 at 47 years old of complications from his fourth heart-valve surgery. Some of his ashes were scattered at the 50-yard line of Stanford Stadium at the University of Georgia.

I am eating better, with less wasted calories and fewer fried foods. My cardiologist said we have made good progress, and I

did not need to get any further tests this year.

One of the surgeons from my operation stated that my walking was very helpful in my survival from the open-heart surgery.

For all who have undergone any major surgery, it can be a life-defining moment.

We should note our failings that caused the heart troubles. We must be smarter with what we eat, make exercise a bigger part of our life and be thankful for whatever time we have left here on Earth. I began that process last year, and like politician Charles Rangel, “I have not had a bad day yet.”

Greg Markley first moved to Lee County in 1996. He has Masters’ in education and history. He taught politics as an adjunct in Georgia and Alabama. An award-winning writer in the Army and civilian life, he has contributed to the Observer for 12 years. gm.markley@charter.net

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B11 Feb. 17, 2022

Auburn Forms Art Study Group

BY HANNAH LESTER HLESTER@ OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM The city of Auburn is in the process of forming an art-related study group, which will look at changing the zoning ordinances in the city of Auburn.

Recent news has citizens up in arms that the Auburn Zoning Board has called for the removal of a mural on Opelika Road, located on the side of the Bedzzz Express.

The mural depicts ‘Greetings From Auburn’ with each letter showcasing a different part of Auburn including Chris Davis, former Auburn running back in the Kick Six in 2013; Momma Goldberg’s and Chicken Salad Chick’s logos; JordanHare Stadium; Samford Hall; the lathe; and Bo Jackson. The background of the mural includes Aubie, an Eagle, Toomer’s Drugstore and the Auburn Oaks, rolled in toilet paper.

The mural, according to the zoning board, violates city ordinances.

The mural was unveiled in fall 2021 and has already become a spot for instagram-worthy photos.

In early February the

board voted against the mural.

Tuesday night, however, during the Auburn City Council meeting, Ward 3 Council Member Beth Witten initiated a discussion on community art and murals in the city.

“I wanted to just ask this body to consider look at how art interacts in our community and how we either allow an individual, a business or even possibly our own municipal art to be displayed throughout our community,” Witten said.

The mural itself was not brought up during the meeting but it is the subject of much online discussion and debate.

“We’re not here to discuss any specific mural cases but there has been a question as to what our ordinance says and I want to make sure everyone understands, when we have a law in the books, such as an ordinance, the city doesn’t get to pick and choose, as we just discussed with noise complaints, which ordinances we enforce and which we do not,” said City Manager Megan Crouch. “We have to enforce them all.”

Crouch said the city council could not change

OPELIKA >> FROM B9

the ordinance immediately on Tuesday night.

Witten said she does believe that Auburn is pro-art and listed a few organizations that help keep the city arts-invested such as the Auburn Arts Association or the Jule Collins Smith Museum.

“What I’m asking us to discuss is art without being contained in four walls, but maybe on the outside of a wall, or in a right-of-way or a public or private space,” she said.

Planning Director Steve Foote spoke on the zoning regulations in the city.

The Planning Commission looked at mural and art research in 2021, Foote said, and considered the creation of an arts commission.

He defined mural and said that murals are not allowed by zoning if they fit the definition of a mural. There is no process in place for residents, artists or businesses to apply for creating murals in the city.

“City council has the ability to initiate a text amendment to the zoning ordinance, as does the planning commission,” he said.

“And that would be something that would

citizens of Opelika for 19 years.

The council and Fuller also recognized the Teachers of the Year from the Opelika City School system.

RENTAL REGISTRATION ORDINANCE - The council introduced for first reading an ordinance to amend Sections 12-46, 12-51 and 12-53 of the Code of Ordinances, Residential Rental Registration and Inspection Program.

The change for Section 12-46 would be to remove the requirement: Signed statement of owner and owner’s agent indicating that he/she is aware of the City’s Property Maintenance Code and the legal ramifications for knowingly violating said Code.

The second change pertain to the rights of the landlord or owner of the property to challenge an inspection before it occurs.

The third change pertains to complaint-based inspections. These changes were suggested to potentially remove legal challenges that have been filed against the city since the ordinance was passed in September of 2021.

There was a motion to suspend the rules and vote on the changes but the motion failed to pass unanimously.

See AUBURN, page B12

This ordinance will be up for vote during the next council meeting on March 1.

OTHER BUSINESS - The council approved a request for a restaurant retail liquor, on-premises beer and off-premises wine alcohol license for Botanic LLC dba Botanic.

- The council approved a request for Lowery Enterprise LLC dba Next Level Cafe, restaurant retail liquor, on-premises beer alcohol license.

- The council approved a request from Opelika Main Street for the 1st Ave Block Party on March 19.

- The council approved a request from Opelika Main Street for the On Tap Craft Beer Event on April 30.

- The council approved a request from Opelika Main Street for Touch-ATruck and Burger Wars on June 4.

- The council held a public hearing for the pre-zoning and annexation of 12.6 acres located on Sellers Drive.

- The council approved the 5th Avenue and 7th Street Drainage Replacement Project for the Engineering Department.

- The council approved a bid from River Region Sports Fields, LLC for softball fields turf construction at West Ridge for an amount of $704,360.60.

- The council approved expense reports from

various departments.

- The council approved the purchase of scoreboards for the Parks and Recreation Department for the amount of $49,977.

- The council approved the Purchase of Furniture for the Information Technology Department for the amount of $69,988.67.

- The council approved certain tax abatements and exemptions for PFI, LTD and ORR DC, LLC. - The council voted to authorize the payment to lower existing sanitary sewer force main along North Park Drive.

- The council approved a grant application to ADEM for the Alabama Recycling Fund Grant Program.

- The council voted to amend the Zoning Ordinance and Map to rezone 17.9 Acres located at Arlee Avenue and Crawford Road.

This amendment will change the zoning from R-3 to a planned unit development.

- The council introduced for first reading an ordinance to approve the annexation petition

by Patrick C. Davidson for 12.6 acres located at Sellers Drive.

- The council introduced for first reading an ordinance to pre-zone property consisting of 12.6 acres located at Sellers Drive to a retail/ entertainment district prior to the annexation into the city of Opelika.

Hanwha Solutions, the “green energy” division of Hanwha, has acquired Cimarron Composites of Huntsville and as a result, is building a new manufacturing facility in Opelika, Alabama.

Hanwha Cimarron designs, manufactures and tests composite pressure vessels for a variety of aerospace and industrial uses — including rockets (for NASA and SpaceX). Here in Opelika we’ll build all types of fuel tanks for hydrogen powered cars/ trucks, in-ground storage tanks for hydrogen re-fueling stations and other uses.

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B12 Feb. 17, 2022

COMMISSION >> FROM B9 wanted to recognize or remember and that’s Johnny Lawrence.

“Johnny was the last person elected, that’s who the people voted for, that’s who I voted for. I … communicated with Maggie [Johnny’s wife] and just wanted to let her know how honored I am and how much I really want to represent her, and their family and Johnny.”

Morris has been in Lee County since 1987 when he moved here as a student. Although he spent two years in Atlanta following graduation, he and his wife soon moved back and have lived in the county since.

He got his masters in Auburn and taught at Loachapoka for a couple of years before switching careers into sales for five years. “[I] then decided to go work for Tyco, which is now Johnson Controls … that’s where I’m employed now, at Johnson Controls,” Morris said.

“I’m a continuous improvement manager, which means I try to fix, my team and I, we try to fix problems. And that’s what we do, they give us a problem and we try to figure out the best way

AUBURN >> FROM B11 be worked on by staff, presented to the Planning Commission, they would make a recommendation that is forwarded to you and then, of course, you would have to adopt an ordinance to change the zoning ordinance.”

The council decided Tuesday night to form the art-focused study group on Mayor Ron Anders suggestion.

“Allow this group … to spend some time over the next 60 or 75 days engaging with our planning staff, engaging with our parks and rec, engaging with people in our community who are interested in this and help us understand how we could make it happen,” Anders said.

The group would return to the council with recommendations, Anders said. The council was amenable to the idea.

around it. I’m not in the engineering side, it’s the people side.”

Morris and his wife are members of Auburn United Methodist, where he spends time volunteering, he said. He is also the PA for Auburn High School sports.

“I just sincerely want to say how grateful I am,” Morris said. “It is an honor and I look at this as a service opportunity and I truly hope that I represent you, and all of Lee County and District 2 especially very well.

So, thank you.”

THIRD ANNIVERSARY OF BEAUREGARD TORNADOES: EMA Director Rita Smith gave the commission a presentation on the upcoming third anniversary of the Beauregard Tornadoes.

The tornadoes that took place on March 19, 2019, took the lives of 23 Lee County residents.

Smith said that she spoke with David and Ashley Thornton, whose daughter Taylor, 6, was one of those lost to the tornadoes.

“What they asked that we do this year is have a picnic where they could bring families in to meet responders and personnel who actually worked that event,” Smith said.

The picnic will be held

on March 3 at 5 p.m. at Providence Baptist Church.

Before the picnic, there will be a moment of silence at 2:03 central [when the first tornado touched in Beauregard] at the Smiths Station Government Center.

Then there will be a 7 p.m. memorial service at Providence Baptist Church.

“They have the lighting of the candles and the very impressive memorial at Providence,” Smith said.

AIRPORT FUNDING: The Auburn University Regional Airport is in need of a runway extension.

“We have to expand our safety area,” said Bill Hutto, airport executive director.

The north end of the runway at Country Club Road and Indian Pines Golf Course needs an additional 700 feet to bring it up to FAA safety standards. The south side already has a 1,000 foot safety area. The north end only has 300 feet.

“If we do not do this project, we will be required to shorten our runway,” Hutto said.

“And our runway is 5,264 feet which is right at a mile. It’s a good length, but with the aircraft that

we’re seeing today, if we have to shorten it and go under 5,000 feet it will severely impact our aircraft users and our ability to be able to serve the community.”

The land will come from Indian Pines Golf Course, however, and the total cost for that land and rebuilding the golf course will be $6.8 million, said Auburn Mayor Ron Anders.

The city of Auburn and the city of Opelika are each contributing $982,000, if that funding is approved by the respective councils.

Auburn University is contributing $470,000.

AO Tourism is putting in $250,000. Indian pines will be contributing $500,000. The FAA, from the state, with the University match, is $2.78 million.

Anders, Opelika Mayor Gary Fuller, Hutto and Cliff Knight Chair of the Indian Pines Board of Directors asked the commission on Jan. 31 if the county would also contribute $982,000.

“The three local governments have been equal partners supporting a number of things, Lee Russell Council of Governments, the county-wide ambulance service from East

Alabama Medical Center, the Auburn University Regional Airport, the two cities participated with Lee County to construct the detention center several years ago,” Fuller said. “… Each of us pledged 2.5 million to build the new terminal at the airport back in 2005 and the three governments, Lee County, Auburn and Opelika have shared equally in various airport projects that were not paid for by federal or state funds.”

The project will be completed, as requested by the FAA, by 2024.

The funding will emanate from Indian Pines Golf Course and the money from each entity will be allocated to Indian Pines each year.

District 1 Commissioner Doug Cannon made a motion Monday night to provide $500,000.

“Then down the road, once we get their bids in then let’s go back and look at it then and see if we can do something different,” he said, which was backed up by District 4 Commissioner Robert Ham. District 5 Commissioner Richard LaGrand said he didn’t want it to look like the

county has given too little.

“I think it’s a great investment but I would like to see the bids come in as well,” he said.

OTHER BUSINESS: - The county heard a proclamation that named Feb. 19-26 as National FFA Week.

- The commission approved the Loachapoka Park Lease Agreement.

- The commission approved the authorization to add the new County Administrator Holly Leverette as a depository authority and removed former County Administrator Roger Rendleman’s name.

- The commission approved the probation office job description.

- The commission approved a resolution against Senate Bill 157, which increased the log truck weight limit.

- The commission approved a speed limit reduction for Lee Road 370.

- The commission approved a bid for dry cleaning for the sheriff’s office.

- The commission approved an ABC License Application for The Backwaters Group LLC. - The commission approved a promotion for Austin Jones for EMA Deputy Director.

SABRE FINANCING: The Industrial Development Board is partnering with Sabre Finance following a vote from the Auburn City Council Tuesday night. The partnership will offer opportunities for financing for local businesses.

The partnership, with the Birmingham-based organization, will create an SBA Loan Fund and add a certified community development financial institution (CDFI) to the city.

“The city of Auburn Department of Economic Development, in order to make funding more accessible to minority-owned business and start-ups, began discussions with Sabre Financing regarding locating a branch of their operation in Auburn, Alabama,” said a memo from City Manager Megan Crouch.

CDFIs are focused on

business development.

“CDFIs can help bridge the financing gap when a project presents a higher risk profile than a traditional lending institution is comfortable funding,” the memo said.

“CDFIs often serve the community by supporting the needs of growing businesses, minority-owned businesses and startups who might be strapped for cash.”

The goal, according to the Community Reinvestment Act of 1977 ensures that those in need of funding can receive it “without bias.”

“A CDFI in the market would be able to assist businesses in situations where financing gaps might exist, where additional equity isn’t available or where smaller, short-term solution for working capital shortfalls are needed,” the memo said. “… With the city’s increased focus on driving entrepreneurial

growth, as well as Auburn University’s robust development of entrepreneurial programming, the Auburn market is ripe for entrepreneurial activity. “… We continue to see businesses start in Auburn and grow in Auburn. We now have an opportunity to have those very same businesses financed in Auburn as well.”

As part of the agreement, the Industrial Development Board will provided over $150,000 to Sabre Finance.

Additionally, the city of Auburn will allocate part of the Urban Development Action Grant paybacks to be used in the loan reserve. The Industrial Development Board is asking for $75,000 from the Urban Development Action Grant funding.

“Sabre is excited by the prospect of working with the city of Auburn’s

Economic Development Department,” said a document from Sabre.

OTHER BUSINESS: - The council approved a contract with Eye Partners, P.C. for a sublease for the relocation of CityCare for just under $51,000.

-The council suspended its rules to move the process of interviews up to fill a vacant planning commission seat.

- The council approved a contract with Gulf Coast Truck and Equipment Company Incorporated to purchase a 2023 Mack LR64 2849 Autoreach 28-yard Automated Side Loading Refuse Collection Body for the Environmental Services Department for over $309,800.

- The council approved a contract with South Dade Air Conditioning and Regrigeratoin, Inc. for a multi-use path on Martin Luther King Drive and SR-14 for over $766,200.

- The council approved a contract with Spire Alabama, Inc. for extending natural gas services to the Auburn Soccer Complex for over $19,000.

- The council approved rights-of-way, various draining and utility easements for Chapel Heights, LLC. for property southwest of the intersection of Pierce Chapel Road and Lee Road 027.

- The council approved a statutory warranty deed for lots 6 and 8 of Tucker Heights Subdivision for the North Auburn Housing Development Corporation.

- The council approved an annexation of 3 acres for Everett and Mary Ann Williamson for property on the east side of Society Hill Road.

- The council fixed the costs for weed abatements for two properties: 937 Alan Ave. and 515 Byrd St.

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B13 Feb. 17, 2022

PUBLIC NOTICES NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING OPELIKA CITY COUNCIL March 15, 2022, 7:00 P.M. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN in accordance with §23-42, Code of Alabama, 1975, that the City Council of the City of Opelika will conduct a Public Hearing during the regularly scheduled City Council meeting on Tuesday, March 15, 2022, beginning at 7:00 p.m. in the Courtroom of the Opelika Municipal Court Building, 300 Martin Luther King Boulevard, Opelika, Lee County, Alabama, to receive the benefit of public input concerning a proposal to vacate a public alley lying between South 10th Street and the CSX Railroad right-of-way in Block 47 of Totten’s Official Real Estate Map of the City of Opelika of 1930, which is of record in Plat Book 2 at Page 9 in the Office of the Judge of Probate of Lee County, Alabama.

All persons interested in the proposed vacation are invited to appear at the public hearing and express their views. Written statements or objections may be submitted to the City Clerk prior to the time of the hearing.

The alley proposed to be vacated is more particularly described as follows: Commencing at the Northwest Corner of the Northeast Quarter of Section 18, Township 19 North, Range 27 East in Opelika, Lee County, Alabama; thence S89°56’E, 489.9 feet to a point on the southwesterly right of way line of South 10th Street and the True Point of Beginning of the Alley herein described; thence, leaving said right of way, S26°09’W, 627.9 feet to the northeasterly right of way line of a railroad right of way; thence N39°29’W, along said right of way line, 17.56 feet; thence, leaving said right of way line, N26°09’E, 627.7 feet to the southwesterly right of way line of the aforementioned South 10th Street; thence, along said right of way line, S40°05’00”E, 17.48 feet to the True Point of Beginning.

Said parcel lying within Block 47, Grant Lands, as shown on Totten’s Official Real Estate Map of Opelika, Alabama, as recorded in Plat Book 2, Pages 9 & 10, in the office of the Judge of Probate of Lee County, Alabama, and containing 0.2306 Acre, more or less.

A copy of the Petition to Vacate and the proposed resolution approving the vacation will be available upon request at the office of the City Clerk, 2nd Floor of City Hall, 204 South 7th Street, Opelika, Alabama.

Please contact Brian Weiss, the City’s ADA Contact Person, at 334-705-5134 at least two (2) working days prior to the meeting if you require special accommodations due to a disability.

DATED this the 3rd day of February, 2022. /s/Russell A. Jones RUSSELL A. JONES, CITY CLERK Legal Run 02/03/2022, 2/10/22, 2/17/22 & 2/24/22 ------------IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN RE: THE ESTATE OF LOUIE WINSTON HAYES JR. Deceased Case No.: 2021-720 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Take Notice that Letters Testamentary of the Estate of Louie Winston Hayes Jr. are hereby been granted to Lydia Jane Johnston on the 31st day of January, 2022, by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama.

Notice is hereby given to all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred.

LYDIA JANE JOHNSTON Legal Run 02/03/2022, 02/10/22 & 02/17/22 ------------Notice of Appointment Estate of Roy Jerrell Riddle, Deceased Court of Probate Lee County Letters Testamentary of said deceased having been granted to the undersigned on the 25th day of January, 2022, by the Jon. Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, notice is hereby given that all

persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred.

Witness our hands, and dates this the 25th day of January, 2022.

Marsha D. Riddle Legal Run 02/03/2022, 02/10/2022, 02/17/2022 ------------IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF LILLIAN D. HARRELSON, DECEASED IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA Case No: 2022-032 Letters Testamentary on the estate of said decedent having been granted to the undersigned on the 28th day of January, 2022, by the Hon. Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred.

WILBER R. HARRELSON, JR. Personal Representative D. Carter Weeks Samford & Denson, LLP P.O. Box 2345 Opelika, AL 36803-2345 (334) 745-3504 LEGAL RUN 02/03/22, 02/10/22 & 02/17/22 ------------IN RE: THE ESTATE OF OTIS H. LYNN, SR., Deceased.

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA CASE No. 2022-029 NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT LETTERS TESTAMENTARY of said deceased having been granted to the undersigned on the 31st day of January, 2022, by Hon. Bill English, Judge of Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within the time allowed by law or the same will be barred.

DARLENE LYNN ARMSTRONG Co-Executrix DENISE LYNN JACKSON Co-Executrix Legal Run 02/3/2022, 02/10/2022 & 02/17/2022 ------------Notice of auction of abandoned vehicles.

BEST 4 LESS will be auctioning off The below mentioned vehicles on MARCH 11, 2022. This Auction will be held at 2509 LAFAYETTE PARKWAY, OPELIKA, ALABAMA, 36801 at 10:00 a.m. If you have any questions in regards to either of the vehicles please give call at 334-705-0000.

3FAHP071X9R220150 – 2009 FORD FUSION JNKCV54E14M800823 – 2003 INFINITI G35 1FALP4440TF106999 – 1996 FORD MUSTANG Legal Run 02/10/2022 & 02/17/2022 ------------Notice of Appointment Estate of CLARENCE PERRY, Deceased Court of Probate Lee County Letters of Administration of said deceased having been granted to the undersigned on the 3rd day of February, 2022, by the Jon. Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred.

Witness my hands, and seal this the 3rd day of February, 2022.

CRAWFORD S. MELTON Legal Run 02/10/2022, 02/17/2022 & 02/24/2022 ------------Notice of auction of abandoned vehicles.

RICHARD’S GARAGE will be auctioning off the below mentioned vehicles on MARCH 11, 2022. This Auction will be held at 11267 LEE ROAD CAMP HILL, ALABAMA, 36850 at 10:00 a.m. If you have any questions in regards to either of the vehicles please give call at 334703-3819.

1G6KD5RS9GU152847 – 2016 CADILAAC CT6 – Legal Run 02/10/2022 &

02/17/2022 ------------STORAGE TREASURES AUCTION Extra Space Storage will hold a public auction to sell personal property described below belonging to those individuals listed below at the location indicated: 1412 Opelika Rd, Auburn, AL 36830 Thursday, February 17, 2022 at 10:00AM Unit 217 Unit 249 Unit H 106 The auction will be listed and advertised on www. storagetreasures.com.

Purchases must be made with cash only and paid at the above referenced facility in order to complete the transaction. Extra Space Storage may refuse any bid and may rescind any purchase up until the winning bidder takes possession of the personal property.

Legal Run 2/10/22 ------------IN THE PROBATE COURT FOR LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF: THE ESTATE OF CHRISTINE CHRISTIAN, deceased Case No.: 2022-044 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Letters Testamentary of said deceased having been granted to Beverly Christian-Jordan, Personal Representative on the 4th day of February, 2022,

by Honorable Bill English, Judge of Probate Court of Lee County, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred.

Becky Christian-Jordan Legal Run 02/10/22, 02/17/22 & 02/24/22 ---------NOTICE BY PUBLICATION Adam Troy Knotts, whose whereabouts are unknown, must answer Aliya and Micah MacGregor’s Complaint and Summons. Said Answer must be filed on or before April 3, 2022 or there after a judgment of default may be entered against him in Case No: CV2021 000154.00 in the Circuit Court of Lee County, Alabama.

Done this the 3rd day of February, 2022.

Mary Robertson Clerk of Circuit Court Lee County, Alabama OF COUNSEL: Ben C. Hand 114 North 8th Street Opelika, AL 36801 334-741-4077 Legal Run 02/10/22, 2/17/22, 2/24/22 & 3/3/2022 ------------IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN RE:THE ESTATE OF R. C. CANNON, DECEASED. Case No. 2021-688 TAKE NOTICE that Letters Testamentary having been granted to Tammy Ann May, as Executrix of the Estate of R. C. Cannon, deceased, on the 24th day of January, 2022, by the Honorable Bill English.

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that all persons having claims against the Estate are hereby required to present the same within the time allowed by law or the same be barred.

Tammy Ann May, Executrix Of the Estate of R. C. Cannon, Deceased Marrell J. McNeal, Attorney at Law, PC PO Box 308 Opelika, AL 36803 334-745-7033 Legal Run 2/10/2022, 2/17/2022 & 2/24/2022 ------------Notice of auction of abandoned vehicles.

RICHARD’S GARAGE will be auctioning off the below mentioned vehicles on MARCH 11, 2022. This Auction will be held at 11267 LEE ROAD CAMP HILL, ALABAMA, 36850 at 10:00 a.m. If you have any questions in regards to either of the vehicles please give call at 334703-3819.

1G6KD5RS9GU152847 – 2016 CADILAAC CT6 – Legal Run 02/10/2022 & -2/17/2022 ------------Notice of auction of abandoned vehicles.

BEST 4 LESS will be auctioning off The below

mentioned vehicles on MARCH 14, 2022. This Auction will be held at 2509 LAFAYETTE PARKWAY, OPELIKA, ALABAMA, 36801 at 10:00 a.m. If you have any questions in regards to either of the vehicles please give call at 334-705-0000.

1HGES15522L046877 – 2002 HONDA CIVIC Legal Run 02/10/2022 & 02/17/2022 ------------NOTICE TO CREDITORS ESTATE OF LOUIS LEON DURR JR., Deceased PROBATE COURT LEE COUNTY, AL CASE NO.: 2022-026 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Take Notice that LETTERS OF ADMINISTRATION of said deceased having been granted to Benjamin H. Parr on the 25th day of January, 2022, by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama.

Notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred.

Benjamin H. Parr Legal Run 2/3/22, 2/10/22 & 02/17/2022.

-------------

IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF BETTY JEAN SHELL, DECEASED IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA CASE No. 2022-053 NOTICE TO CREDITORS TAKE NOTICE that Letters Testamentary of said deceased having been granted to Daniel Wayne Shell, on the 4th day of February, 2022, by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama Notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within the time allowed by law or the same will be barred.

Daniel Wayne Shell, Personal Representative LEGAL RUN 2/17/22, 2/24/22 & 3/3/22 ------------IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF EDDIE WAYNE SHELL, DECEASED IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA CASE No. 2022-053 NOTICE TO CREDITORS TAKE NOTICE that Letters Testamentary of said deceased having been granted to Daniel Wayne Shell, on the 4TH day of February 2022, by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama Notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within the time allowed by law or the same will be barred.

Daniel Wayne Shell, Personal Representative LEGAL RUN 2/17/22, 2/24/22 & 3/3/22 ------------IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN RE: THE ESTATE OF HARRY J. CLAPPER A/K/A HARRY JAMES CLAPPER, Deceased CASE NO. 2022-015 NOTICE TO CREDITORS TAKE NOTICE that Letters Testamentary of the Estate of HARRY JAMES CLAPPER a/k/a HARRY J. CLAPPER, deceased having been granted to JAMES CLAPPER on the 13th day of January, 2022, by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of Probate of Lee County, Alabama.

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within the time allowed by law or the same will be barred.

Legal Run 2/17/22, 2/24/22& 3/3/22 ------------NOTICE OF COURT PROCEEDING CASE NO: 2022-050 IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA Notice of the filing of Petition for Summary Distribution In the Estate of LEONARD ELLINGTON BYRD , Deceased Notice is hereby given that a Petition for Summary

Distribution has been filed in the LEE COUNTY Probate Office by on February 4, 2022, Kimberly Cox Byrd pursuant to Section 43-2-690, Code of Alabama and that 30 days after the notice of publication hereof and pursuant to law the Court shall be requested to enter an Order directing Summary Distribution of the estate of said decedent.

BILL ENGLISH, PROBATE JUDGE Legal Run 02/17/2022

Office by Taylor Martin Merritt on February 14, 2022, pursuant to Section 43-2-690, Code of Alabama and that 30 days after the notice of publication hereof and pursuant to law the Court shall be requested to enter an Order directing Summary Distribution of the estate of said decedent.

BILL ENGLISH, PROBATE JUDGE Legal Run 02/17/2022

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INVITATION TO BID 22010 Sealed bids for the construction of the Roundabout at Sportsplex Parkway and West Point Parkway shall be received at the Opelika City Hall Conference Room, 204 South Seventh Street, Opelika, Alabama, until 2:00 p.m., local time on Tuesday, March 8, 2022, and then publicly opened and read aloud. All interested parties are invited to attend. Only bids from competent general contractors will be considered. At the time of contract award, the successful bidder must be a properly licensed general contractor. The attention of all bidders is called to the provisions of State law governing “General Contractors” as set forth in the Ala. Code §34-8-1, et.seq. (1975) and rules and regulations promulgated pursuant thereto. Bidders must be licensed by the Licensing Board for General Contractors when bids are submitted.

Bidders are required to have a State of Alabama General Contractor’s License with a specialty of “Highways and Streets, Clearing and Grubbing, Earthwork, Erosion, Site Work, Grading or Municipal and Utility”. All bidders must submit with their proposal, contractor’s license number and a copy of the license.

State law Ala. Code §34-88(b) requires all bids to be rejected which do not contain the contractor’s current license number. Evidence of this license shall be documented on the outside of the sealed bid.

All bidders shall possess all other licenses and/or permits required by applicable law, rule or regulation for the performance of the work.

Drawings and Specifications may be examined at the Office of the City Engineer located at 700 Fox Trail, Opelika, Alabama, and phone number: 334-705-5450. Bid documents may be obtained from the Office of the City Engineer at no charge as an electronic file if the bidder supplies a storage drive or as an email attachment or electronic drop box.

The bidder’s proposal must be submitted on the complete original proposal furnished to him/her by the City of Opelika. All information in the proposal must be completed by the bidder for the proposal to be accepted.

A Bid Bond in the amount of five (5) percent of the bid amount made payable to the City of Opelika must accompany each bid.

Performance and Payment Bonds for the full contract sum will be required of the successful bidder. The right is reserved by the Owner to reject all Bids and to waive irregularities.

Envelopes containing bids must be sealed, marked, addressed as follows, and delivered to: Lillie Finley, Purchasing-Revenue Manager, City of Opelika, 204 South 7th Street, P.O. Box 390, Opelika, Alabama, 368030390. Attn: Roundabout at Sportsplex Parkway and West Point Parkway LILLIE FINLEYPURCHASING REVENUE MANAGER CITY OF OPELIKA 204 SOUTH SEVENTH STREET (36801) POST OFFICE BOX 390 (36803-0390) OPELIKA, ALABAMA PH: (334) 705-5120 Legal Run 02/17/2022 & 02/24/2022

NOTICE OF COURT PROCEEDING CASE NO: 2022-061 IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA Notice of the filing of Petition for Summary Distribution In the Estate of ROBERT ELTON ORRICK JR., Deceased Notice is hereby given that a Petition for Summary Distribution has been filed in the LEE COUNTY Probate Office by Julia Harrington Orrick on February 11, 2022, pursuant to Section 43-2690, Code of Alabama and that 30 days after the notice of publication hereof and pursuant to law the Court shall be requested to enter an Order directing Summary Distribution of the estate of said decedent.

BILL ENGLISH, PROBATE JUDGE Legal Run 02/17/2022 ------------IN THE MATTER OF THE ADOPTION PETITION OF JASON DOUGLAS KILGORE AND AMY MARIE KILGORE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA CASE NO.: 2021-667 PUBLICATION NOTICE TO: William Kyle Payne, address unknown Please take notice that a petition for adoption was filed in the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama by Jason Douglas Kilgore and Amy Marie Kilgore on December I, 2021, for the adoption of K.L.V., on March 4, 2014, to Veronica Ann Adams and William Kyle Payne in Carrollton, Georgia.

A hearing has been set in the Lee County Probate Court, Opelika, AL 36801.

Should you intend to contest this adoption you must file a written response with the attorney for the petitioner, Hon. Margaret A. Mayfield, P.O. Box 809, Opelika, AL 36803 and with the Clerk of the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama, as soon as possible but no later than thirty (30) days from the last day this notice is published.

Dated on this the l lth day of February 2022.

HON. BILL ENGLISH JUDGE OF PROBATE LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA Legal Ru 02/17/2022, 02/24/2022, 03/03/2022 & 03/10/2022 ------------NOTICE OF COURT PROCEEDING CASE NO.: 2022-064 IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA Notice of the filing of Petition for Summary Distribution In the Estate of WILLIAM MILTON FARMER, deceased Notice is hereby given that a Petition for Summary Distribution has been filed in the LEE COUNTY Probate Office by Mickey B. Farmer on February 14, 2022, pursuant to Section 43-2-690, Code of Alabama and that 30 days after the notice of publication hereof and pursuant to law the Court shall be requested to enter an Order directing Summary Distribution of the estate of said decedent.

BILL ENGLISH, PROBATE JUDGE Legal Run 02/17/2022 ------------IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA Notice of the filing of Petition for Summary Distribution In the Estate of ANNA BELLE MERRITT, deceased CASE NO.: 2022-066 IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA Notice is hereby given that a Petition for Summary Distribution has been filed in the LEE COUNTY Probate

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See PUBLIC NOTICES, page B14

B14 Feb. 17, 2022

PUBLIC NOTICES >> FROM B13 -------------

ORDINANCE NO. 004-22 AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE ZONING ORDINANCE AND ZONING MAP OF THE CITY OF OPELIKA (KNOLLWOOD PUD) BE IT ORDAINED by the City Council (the “Council”) of the City of Opelika, Alabama (the “City”) as follows: Section 1. FINDINGS. The Council has determined and hereby finds and declares that the following facts are true and correct: (a) Hartbrook Development, LLC, (“Hartbrook”) is the owner of record of that certain property consisting of 17.9 acres located along Crawford Road (Highway 169). (b) Hartbrook heretofore submitted to the City a development plan for a planned unit development (“PUD”) consisting of approximately 17.9 acres, designated as “Knollwood PUD”. (c) The proposed development is a residential development consisting of approximately 47 singlefamily home lots and two (2) parcels that are reserved for stormwater detention/ open space. Access to the development is from two (2) new streets with one on the south border connecting to Crawford Road. The second access to this development will be a connection to Arlee Avenue from a planned stub street connector to be built in Village at Waterford Phase 4 Subdivision. The proposed density is 2.6 dwelling units per acre. (d) The Planning Commission heretofore conducted a public hearing of the proposed development and referred to the City Council its recommendation to approve the proposed development. (e) It is advisable and in the interest of the City and the public interest that the proposed property described in Section 3 below should be developed as a residential planned unit development.

Section 2. APPROVAL OF THE DEVELOPMENT

PLAN. The Development Plan as submitted for review is hereby approved and affirmed as required

by Section 8.18(N) of the Zoning Ordinance of the City.

Section 3. DESIGNATION OF A PLANNED UNIT DEVELOPMENT. The official Zoning Map is hereby amended and the zoning classification for the following parcel of land shall be changed from a R-3 District (Low-Density Residential District) to a Planned Unit Development (PUD) on the official zoning map of the City.

Lot 1, 2, and 3 as shown on the ‘San Marco Subdivision, First Addition’ plat recorded in plat book 12, page 134 on November 13, 1986 at the Lee County, Alabama Courthouse The above-described property, containing approximately 17.9 acres, is located along Crawford Road (Highway 169).

Section 4. RETENTION OF COPIES OF DEVELOPMENT PLAN. Copies of the Development Plan shall be maintained in the office of the City Clerk, City Planner, City Engineer and Building Official and shall be open for public inspection.

Section 5. REPEALER. Any ordinance or part thereof in conflict with provisions of this Ordinance be and the same are hereby repealed.

Section 6. EFFECTIVE DATE. This Ordinance shall become effective upon its adoption, approval and publication as required by law.

Section 7. PUBLICATION. This Ordinance shall be published one (1) time in a newspaper of general circulation in the City of Opelika, Lee County, Alabama.

ADOPTED AND APPROVED this the 15th day of February, 2022. /s/ Eddie Smith PRESIDENT OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF OPELIKA, ALABAMA ATTEST: /s/ Russell A. Jones CITY CLERK TRANSMITTED TO MAYOR on this the 16th day of February, 2022. /s/ Russell A. Jones CITY CLERK

ACTION BY MAYOR APPROVED this the 16th day of February, 2022. /s/ Gary Fuller MAYOR ATTEST: /s/ Russell A. Jones CITY CLERK LEGAL RUN 02/17/2022 -------------

SYNOPSIS OF ZONING NOTICE The City Council of the City of Opelika will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, March 15, 2022, at 7:00 p.m. in the Courtroom of the Opelika Municipal Court Building, 300 Martin Luther King Boulevard, Opelika, Lee County, Alabama, to consider the adoption of an ordinance to amend the Zoning Ordinance and the Zoning Map of the City of Opelika by rezoning or redistricting the parcel of land hereinafter described so as to change such parcel from one class of district to another class of district, as follows: From a M-1, GC-S District (Industrial, Gateway Corridor—Secondary Overlay District) and a C-2, GC-S District (Office/Retail, Gateway Corridor-Secondary Overlay District) to a C-1, GC-S District (Downtown Commercial, Gateway Corridor-Secondary Overlay District), the parcel of land hereinafter described: TRACT 1, 2, AND ALLEY COMBINED ALL THAT TRACT OR PARCEL OF LAND LYING AND BEING IN THE CITY OF OPELIKA, ALABAMA, BEING WITHIN SECTION 18, TOWNSHIP-19NORTH, RANGE-27EAST AND BEING MORE PARTICULARLY DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: COMMENCING AT 1” PIPE FOUND AT THE INTERSECTION OF SOUTHEAST RIGHTOF-WAY OF AVENUE C (60’ R/W) AND THE SOTHWEST RIGHTOF-WAY OF SOUTH 10TH STREET (60’ R/W) HAVING ALABAMA STATE PLANE EAST ZONE COORDINATES OF N=780093.99, E=796165.11, SAID POINT BEING THE POINT OF BEGINNING; THENCE, ALONG THE SOUTHWEST RIGHT-OFWAY OF SOUTH 10TH

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STREET, S41°11'43"E A DISTANCE OF 83.30 FEET TO A 1/2” REBAR FOUND, THENCE, S41°18'17"E A DISTANCE OF 117.48 FEET TO A 1” PIPE FOUND AT THE INTERSECTION OF SOUTH 10TH STREET AND A 16’ ALLEY, THENCE, S40°00'12"E A DISTANCE OF 18.37 FEET TO A POINT AT THE INTERSECTION OF A 16’ ALLEY, THENCE, S40°34'00"E A DISTANCE OF 216.07 FEET TO A 1/2” REBAR SET, THENCE, S42°01'42"E A DISTANCE OF 80.00’ FEET TO A 1/2" REBAR SET, THENCE LEAVING THE RIGHT-OF-WAY OF SOUTH 10TH STREET, S44°15'18"W A DISTANCE OF 225.00’ TO A 1/2" REBAR SET, THENCE, S42°01'42"E A DISTANCE OF 99.60’ TO A 1/2" REBAR SET, THENCE, S45°26'18"W A DISTANCE OF 184.60 FEET TO A 1/2” REBAR SET, THENCE, S45°59'18"W A DISTACNE OF 173.30 FEET TO A 1/2"REBAR FOUND ON THE NORTHEAST RIGHT-OFWAY OF CENTRAL OF GEORGIA RAILWAY 100’ RIGHT-OF-WAY, THENCE, N39°57'42"W A DISTANCE OF 186.20 FEET TO A 1” PIPE FOUND AT THE INTERSECTION OF CENTRAL OF GEORGIA RAILWAY AND A 16’ ALLEY, THENCE, N39°40'03"W A DISTANCE OF 17.40 FEET TO A 1” PIPE FOUND AT THE INTERSECTION OF A 16’ ALLEY, THENCE, N39°55'28"W A DISTANCE OF 229.53 FEET TO A 1” PIPE, THENCE, N39°55'28"W A DISTANCE OF 211.02 FEET TO 1/2" REBAR SET AT THE INTERSECTION OF THE NORTHEAST RIGHT-OF-WAY OF CENTRAL OF GEORGIA RAILROAD AND THE SOUTHEAST RIGHTOF-WAY OF AVENUE C, THENCE ALONG THE SOUTHEAST RIGHTOF-WAY OF AVENUE C, N47°14'14"E A DISTANCE OF 186.55 FEET TO A 1/2" REBAR SET, THENCE, N47°14'14"E A DISTANCE OF 9.89 FEET TO A POINT, THENCE, N47°14'14"E A DISTANCE OF 52.73 FEET TO A 1” PIPE FOUND, THENCE, N47°14'14"E A DISTANCE OF 84.52 FEET TO A 1/2" REBAR FOUND, THENCE, N88°08'55"E A DISTANCE OF 5.76 FEET TO A DRIL POINT FOUND, THENCE, N47°55'02"E A DISTANCE OF 29.78 FEET TO A 1/2" REBAR FOUND, THENCE, N47°53'21"E

A DISTANCE OF 32.50 FEET TO A DRILL POINT FOUND, THENCE, N48°16'51"E A DISTANCE OF 12.18 FEET TO 1/2” REBAR SET, THENCE ALONG THE SOUTHEAST RIGHTOF-WAY OF AVENUE C, N48°16'51"E A DISTANCE OF 154.87 FEET TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING. SAID TRACT OF LAND CONTAINS 7.82 ACRES. The above-described property contains approximately 7.8 acres and is located at the intersection of South 10th Street and Avenue C, Opelika, Alabama.

Public Notice of this public hearing with insertion of the proposed ordinance was first published on February 10, 2022, in the Opelika Observer. This notice is given pursuant to Sections 11-52-77 and 11-52-78 Code of Alabama (1975).

At said public hearing, all who desire to be heard shall have the opportunity to speak for or in opposition to the adoption of the ordinance. Written comments concerning the above matter may be mailed to the City Clerk at P.O. Box 390, Opelika, AL 36803 at any time prior to the public hearing and may be further submitted to the City Council at the meeting and the public hearing.

Please contact Brian Weiss, the City’s ADA Contact Person, at 334-705-5234 two (2) working days prior to the meeting if you require special accommodations due to any disability.

THIS NOTICE is given under my hand this the 17th day of February, 2022. /s/ Russell A. Jones CITY CLERK OF THE CITY OF OPELIKA, ALABAMA LEGAL RUN 02/17/2022 -------------

CITY OF OPELIKA SYNOPSIS OF ZONING NOTICE ZONING ORDINANCE AMENDMENTS The City Council of the City of Opelika (the “City Council”) will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, March 15, 2022, at 7:00 p.m. in the Courtroom of the Opelika Municipal Court Building, 300 Martin Luther King Boulevard, Opelika, Lee County, Alabama, to consider an ordinance to amend Ordinance No. 124-91 entitled “Zoning Ordinance of the City of Opelika” adopted on September 17, 1991, in the following respects: (a) That Section 7.1A (“Area Requirements”) of the Zoning Ordinance shall be amended to provide that the maximum number of dwelling units per acre in the C-1 District is 36. (b) That Section 7.3C (“Uses”) of the Zoning Ordinance shall be amended to provide that a duplex is

a conditional use in the R-4 and R-4M Districts. (c) That Section 7.3C (“Uses”) of the Zoning Ordinance shall be amended to provide that mausoleums, columbariums and crematoriums are conditional uses only in the GC-P and GC-S overlay districts. They are prohibited in the GC-P or GC-S districts as a primary use but may be accessory to another use as provided in footnotes 7, 8 and 9 at the end of the matrix table. (d) Subsections C and D of Section 7.7 of the Zoning Ordinance shall be amended to provide revised development and design standards for buildings and structures located in the C-1 District.

Public Notice of this public hearing with insertion of the proposed ordinance was first published on February 10, 2022, in the Opelika Observer. This notice is given pursuant to Sections 11-52-77 and 11-52-78 Code of Alabama (1975).

At said public hearing, all who desire to be heard shall have the opportunity to speak for or in opposition to the adoption of the Ordinance. Written comments concerning the above matter may be mailed to the City Clerk at P.O. Box 390, Opelika, AL 36803 at any time prior to the public hearing and may be further submitted to the City Council at the meeting and the public hearing.

Please contact Brian Weiss, the City’s ADA Contact Person, at 334-705-5134 at least two (2) working days prior to the public hearing if you require special accommodations due to a disability.

THIS NOTICE is given under my hand this the 17th day of February, 2022. /s/ Russell A. Jones CITY CLERK OF THE CITY OF OPELIKA, ALABAMA LEGAL RUN 02/17/2022 -------------

NOTICE OF COURT PROCEEDING IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA Notice of the filing of Petition for Summary Distribution In the Estate of WILLIE GEORGE BARNETT, Deceased Notice is hereby given that a Petition for Summary Distribution has been filed in the LEE COUNTY Probate Office by on February 15, 2022, Peggy Barnett pursuant to Section 43-2-690, Code of Alabama and that 30 days after the notice of publication hereof and pursuant to law the Court shall be requested to enter an Order directing Summary Distribution of the estate of said decedent.

BILL ENGLISH, PROBATE JUDGE Legal Run 02/17/2022

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